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A show of Eight emerging Italian Artists ‘Senso Unico’, has been presented to the American audience for the past 3 months at P.S.1 MOMA. The Italian artists selected  for the show have maintained a major presence in the international contemporary art world over the past decade. Senso Unico featured the work of eight influential figures such as Vanessa Beecroft, Paolo Canevari, Angelo Filomeno, Rä di Martino, Adrian Paci, Paola Pivi, Pietro Roccasalva and Francesco Vezzoli. Not defined by a particular artistic school or movement, these artists and their distinct oeuvre have been brought together for the first time in a presentation of unique talent from Italy.

We interviewed Alanna Heiss curator of the show and Director of P.S.1 MOMA asking her opinion and comments on the audience reaction to the exhibit so far.

How did you come up with the idea of curating a show dedicated only to 8 emerging Italian Artists? Why did you pick these 8 Italian artists?

It is important to know that these artists are not emerging. They have become common members of the international artists community, as well as numerous exhibitions and Biennales. The most interesting aspect of the show was to include them in a single exhibition, and under the Italian banner, while bringing to light their prominent and unique presence in the international contemporary art world

How did you come up with the title ‘Senso Unico’?

Translated as “one way,” a commonplace traffic sign, the title would suggest a shared artistic sentiment among this established generation of Italian artists. However, “senso unico” can also mean “unique feeling”, which highlights the distinctive qualities of each artist in the show, and the individual paths they have chosen.

‘Senso unico’ is about to close: what has been in your opinion the audience reaction to the exhibit so far?

P.S.1 had a wonderful Fall Opening on October 21^st, which presented Senso Unico along with many other beautiful shows. The audience has been very receptive to the quality of the exhibitions this season, and to how well balanced and choreographed the P.S.1 building looks.

Do you think that the immense heritage of the Italian cultural history is considered a burden or a blessing for a young artist?

There is a great deal of cultural heritage for this selection of artists, which comes from a wealth of familiar Italian iconography. Paolo Canevari’s Burning Coloseum drawing and Pietro Roccasalva’s Intelligent Artifice(r) paintings are examples of the artist being inspired by local imagery, while simultaneously trying to break away from it.

What inspired you to become a curator and what are your goals for the future as Director of P.S.1?

I love to work with artists, and love the P.S.1 building, which contains 100 beautiful gallery spaces. These spaces were originally designed for children to learn in, and are the perfect size: 28 x 28 x 28 feet, with a wall of windows. To me, these are just right for looking at art.