ART, WHATEVER IT TAKES
Since the early pandemic in 2020, Rome Art Program has conducted a series of interviews, “Art, Whatever It Takes.”
Artists, Art Critics, and Art Historians living in Italy, the U.S., and U.K., share their insights during these powerful times.
Interview with Claudia Guitto - Clode Art Gallery
Claudia Guitto, known in the art world as Clode, is an emerging and determined figure in the panorama of contemporary art galleries. Born in Italy in 1985, she spent most of her childhood and adolescence in England, where she absorbed the influence of international culture from an early age. Growing up bilingual, Clode developed a broad and open vision of the world, which allowed her to move naturally between different artistic and cultural realities. Since 2012, Clode has been working in prestigious galleries and museums, both in Italy and abroad, collaborating with artists and galleries in London and New York. These experiences enrich her professionally, giving her a close-up look at the international art market and the creative universe of artist studios. During her career, she also worked at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, an experience that further strengthened her understanding of the management of Italian artistic and cultural heritage. In October 2024, Clode decided to found her own art gallery, the Clode Art Gallery, realizing a dream cultivated over the years..
RAP: What is your definition of "Art" today?
Clode: My definition of 'Art' today is that it is an ever-evolving space where people can express their thoughts, emotions, and identities in countless ways. It is not limited to specific mediums or techniques; art is now more about sparking conversation, evoking emotion, or offering new perspectives on the world than about following specific rules or structures.
RAP: Art is dynamic and regenerates itself... How does it change and how has it changed us?
Clode: Art transforms, and reinvents itself in response to cultural, political, and technological changes. Art changes because society changes: new ideas, challenges, and experiences demand new forms of expression. Art, in all its forms, has the power to influence how we think, feel, and perceive the world. It challenges our beliefs, expands our understanding, and invites us to see things from different perspectives.
RAP: What is the role of Art today?
Clode: Art today plays a multifaceted role in society, serving as both a reflection of contemporary issues and a means of personal expression. One of the most significant aspects of art in the modern world is its ability to transcend boundaries—whether cultural, social, or geographical—connecting individuals and communities on a global scale.
RAP: What would you recommend to an 'emerging artist' today?
Clode: I would recommend to an emerging artist to focus on developing a style or perspective that sets you apart and to build a consistent portfolio, also to create an online presence and to network actively. To embrace feedback and to be open to constructive criticism. Most importantly to stay persistent; the journey can be challenging, with rejection and setbacks. Persevere, stay passionate, and keep experimenting.
RAP: How have new technologies & media culture changed Art today? Has it made it better or worse?
Clode: New technologies and media culture have significantly transformed the art world, reshaping how art is created, distributed, and experienced. Whether these changes have made art "better" or "worse" depends on perspective: ● Better: Technology has democratized art, introduced unprecedented creativity, and connected artists and audiences like never before. ● Worse: The emphasis on trends, algorithms & commercialization can dilute the depth and cultural significance of art.
RAP: Understanding, interpreting, and possibly judging a work of Art - what is the right way to approach a work of Art?
Clode: Understanding, interpreting, and possibly judging a work of art can be an enriching experience. There is no single “right” way to approach a work of art. The key is to remain open, curious, and willing to engage with the work on multiple levels. Art is a dialogue between the creator and the viewer, and every encounter with a piece can be a unique journey.
RAP: What is the real role of Academies and Art schools today? What can artists learn from them?
Clode: Art academies and schools have evolved significantly over time. Today, their role extends far beyond being spaces where technical skills are honed; they serve as hubs for critical thinking, networking, and fostering creative innovation. What artists can learn from these institutions is more than technical skills; they gain the ability to think critically, build meaningful connections, and position their work within broader cultural conversations. Art schools are not just places for creating art—they are spaces for creating artists.
RAP: How do Art Galleries and Museums position themselves today, and how do you think they should?
Clode: Many museums and galleries position themselves as cultural meeting points, offering not just exhibitions but also workshops, lectures, and events that foster community engagement. They're emphasizing their role as accessible, welcoming spaces. With the rise of social media and online collections, virtual tours, interactive online exhibits, and live streamed events are becoming common. Museums and galleries are not just spaces to look at art—they're mirrors of society and potential drivers of change. By positioning themselves as more inclusive, relevant, and participatory, they can serve as vital cultural engines that not only reflect but actively shape the world around them.
RAP: ...Will Art save us?
Clode: No, Art won't save us. Art can remind us of what it means to feel alive. It creates connections across time, cultures, and ideologies and it gives us a space to process grief, joy and love.
clodeartgallery.com
@clodeartgallery