Milan-based independent curator Domenico de Chirico builds exhibitions around tightly framed ideas, inviting artists to test their limits. With a background in literature and visual culture—and past roles at DAMA Fair, IED Milan, and institutions across Europe—his curatorial vision is shaped by academic rigor and a wide-ranging engagement with the international art world. His shows prompt viewers to go beyond surface-level looking, turning the gallery into a space of multi-sensory inquiry.
Beyond my deep interest in the humanae litterae, whose enduring potential often fosters a cyclical reflection of thought, my attention at present—especially in light of the current global context—is primarily drawn to themes such as resilience, innovation, openness to change, and an inclination toward freedom of expression, in full support of artists and their boundless expressive potential, and with respect for everyone.
It would be an honor to curate a retrospective of Louise Bourgeois.
One thing that I think is often misunderstood in the art world is the tendency to treat art itself as mere entertainment or a must-see event. Many overlook the deeper and more significant aspects of the necessary potential of artistic creation and its role in integrating thought, challenging norms, and pushing boundaries, often by elevating beauty beyond its canonical dogmas.
The best advice I’ve ever received as a curator is to always stay curious and open-minded—to observe, to listen, and, when necessary, to remain silent. Art is constantly evolving, and being receptive to new ideas and perspectives allows us to create more meaningful and relevant professional experiences.
There are so many of them, and they’re really beautiful.
Often, the first thing I notice is the artist’s sense of identity—how it comes through in their work, beyond the techniques.
I don’t usually collect, to be honest.
At this point in my life, I prefer drinking water—but I also enjoy a glass of wine, especially in good company.
Destruction of the Father / Reconstruction of the Father: Writings and Interviews, 1923–1997 (2000) by Louise Bourgeois and Michel Ragon
There are many—countless, in fact. Among them: Louise Bourgeois, Destruction of the Father / Reconstruction of the Father (Writings and Interviews); Pierre Klossowski, The Laws of Hospitality; Jean-Luc Nancy, The Ground of the Image; Kazimir Malevich, Suprematism; The Theatre and Its Double by Antonin Artaud; Martin Heidegger, The Origin of the Work of Art and Introduction to Aesthetics; Mark Rothko, The Artist's Reality: Philosophies of Art; In Praise of Folly by Erasmus of Rotterdam; Candide, ou l'Optimisme by Voltaire; Against the Grain by Joris-Karl Huysmans—and so on.
Overthinking and smoking.
Paris.
It really depends on the situation. If they’re nice surprises, then yes!
The best compliment I've ever received is when someone told me that I have the ability to truly listen and understand others.
One thing people might not know about me is that I can be a lonely person. Even though I truly enjoy being around others, I also value my solitude.
These days, the best way for me to unwind is probably cooking while listening to some good music.
I'm working on mastering time management and organization, especially when juggling multiple projects at once. It's something I continuously strive to improve in order to be increasingly efficient and productive in both personal and professional tasks. In the meantime, I must always remember to breathe properly.
Every time I achieve my goals.
Probably a classical orchestra conductor. Although my mother says, considering the countless trips, that I could easily be a flight attendant.
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