In today’s algorithm-driven world what has become of embodied eroticism, of desire, of seeking and celebrating beauty, of intimate vulnerability, or vulnerable intimacy?
Italy
Italian Authorities Seize Etruscan Antiquities Looted by “Clumsy” Tomb Raiders
The artifacts date back to the third century BCE and may be worth upwards of €8 million.
Outrage Over Airbnb’s “Gladiator Experience” in Rome’s Colosseum
Some Italian officials say the private event risks turning the ancient amphitheater into a “Disneyland.”
Italy Seizes Over 2,000 Artworks Linked to Art Forgery Scheme
An investigation led to 38 individuals accused of producing and selling counterfeit Banksy, Warhol, Picasso, and Dalí pieces, among others.
Pompeii Caps Visitors as Overtourism Threatens Ancient Sites
The archaeological park saw 36,000 visitors on a single Sunday this summer.
Sexually Graphic Frescoes Discovered in Pompeii, Again
A recently excavated house contains at least four paintings including an artistic depiction of copulation between a satyr and a nymph.
Man Smashes Ai Weiwei Sculpture in Italy
The vandal toppled the porcelain cube during a reception at Palazzo Fava in Bologna.
Rome’s Arch of Constantine Damaged in Lightning Strike
Italian authorities began conservation on the ancient monument after a storm caused part of the arch’s frame to collapse.
Another Tourist Has Carved Initials Into an Ancient Pompeii House
The man is accused of defacing a heritage site under a new law meant to crack down on the vandalization of Italy’s cultural monuments.
Woman Caught Gettin’ It On With Florence Statue Sparks Outrage
City officials are searching for the woman after photos of her grinding and kissing a Bacchus sculpture went viral.
Skeleton Deities and Political Mind Games at the Venice Biennale
Hrag Vartanian and AX Mina discuss what worked, what didn’t, and what drew political protests at the “Olympics of the art world.”
Stunning Pale-Blue Frescoes Found in Pompeii
The Ancient Roman room, thought to have been used as a shrine for ritual activities, is estimated to date back approximately 2,000 years.