Modern Attitudes Toward Art in Florence: An Exploration of the Renaissance Capital’s Struggle to Accept Contemporary Art.

Abstract

After studying abroad in Florence in the Fall of 2019, I examined a side of Florence that is normally not exposed to tourists as well as Florentines. Florence is the mecca of the Italian Renaissance and takes pride in its rich history. However, it lacks cultural diversity and international influences. Other major Italian cities such as Milan and Venice have served as a model for city's rich in their history, but willing to integrate contemporary ideas. Through this exploration, it is evident that artists throughout Florence strive to give their city the cultural diversity it deserves. Since the 1960s, Florentine artists have worked hard toward integrating international artworks and influences into their studios and exhibitions. Despite their efforts, Renaissance art is Florence's main commodity, and the city disregard's contemporary art in fear that it will take away from their main attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell'Accademia. This results in a challenge to accept contemporary art in the shadow of the city's great Renaissance works.