How might classical art speak to contemporary concerns? In what ways can present-day perspectives illuminate the Greek and Roman past? And how can new dialogues between artists, art historians and classical archaeologists engage new – more diverse and inclusive – audiences in the twenty-first century?

The Centre for Hellenic Studies organised a conversation with renowned Italian artist Francesco Vezzoli - in partnership with the Fondazione Brescia Musei.

The discussion took its cue from Vezzoli’s current exhibition, Paloscenici archeologici (‘Archaeological Stages’) at the UNESCO archaeological park at Brescia (June 2021 – January 2022). By bringing together an international panel of art historians, archaeologists and curators, the event also explored the show’s larger artistic, conceptual and curatorial context: the aim was not only to initiate new dialogues between archaeology and the contemporary art world, but also to explore the past, present and future of classical traditions.

This online international event formed part of the ‘Modern Classicisms’ project at King’s, and was generously supported by the Jamie Rumble Memorial Fund.

Panel

Francesco Vezzoli
Dr Patch Crowley, Cantor Center, Stanford University
Professor Verity Platt, Cornell University
Dr Letizia Ragaglia, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein
Professor Salvatore Settis, Scuola Normale Superiore
Professor Michael Squire, King’s College London