We talked about CANEMORTO years ago, the artistic collective composed of three street artists who, as stated in our article from 2017, «with rough and seemingly raw irony, create deformed, frantic, gloomy, and fragile works at the same time». In short, a collective we’ve been keeping an eye on for a while, and for this reason, we’re highlighting their new exhibition in Bologna today. Specifically, in the halls of the charming exhibition space at Alchemilla, inaugurated yesterday, January 25th, at Palazzo Vizzani. The project is called The Painting Race, curated by Antonio Grulli. The exhibition, included in the ART CITY Bologna program – within the context of Arte Fiera – promises to challenge and revolutionize the traditional conception of works of art.

The Painting Race proposes an alternative view of canvas paintings, transforming them into “remote-controlled paintings” equipped with wheels. These mobile works are placed in a closed circuit that runs through all the rooms of the charming exhibition space at Alchemilla. A playful and participatory experience that aims to break down barriers between works and visitors, challenging the conventions of art exhibitions. The circuit, with its appearance reminiscent of a brutalist and minimalist sculpture, becomes the stage for a “painting on wheels” competition. In an era where the distance between art and the audience seems insurmountable, CANEMORTO suggests direct interaction, allowing visitors to become protagonists within the exhibition by guiding and manipulating the works along the predetermined path.

Far from the static nature and reserve that often characterize art exhibitions, CANEMORTO satirizes the competitive dynamics of art fairs, offering the audience the opportunity to actively participate in the event. The Painting Race breaks down the barriers between spectators and works, transforming the exhibition visit into an engaging experience. During the days of ART CITY Bologna, team-based performative competitions are scheduled, putting representatives from various professional categories in the art world to the test. A challenge that goes beyond the traditional artist-to-artist comparison, involving critics, curators, and other industry professionals in a unique and dynamic experience.

Courtesy CANEMORTO