The Italian government will purchase the former residence of Futurist artist Giacomo Balla in Rome. Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli announced the acquisition during a press conference at the Galleria Nazionale d’arte Moderna (GNAM) in Rome, coinciding with the launch of a major Futurism exhibition. A pre-sale agreement has been signed, facilitating broader public access to the property.
This residence, known as Casa Balla, showcases the vibrant and dynamic artistic style of Balla, who was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century Futurism movement. The sale includes original furnishings painted by Balla, enhancing the historical and cultural significance of the site. Casa Balla previously opened for limited public visits in 2021 and 2023, marking notable anniversaries of the artist’s birth.
Giacomo Balla, who lived in this house with his family from 1929 until his death in 1958, had two daughters who continued to reside there until the 1990s. The property remained closed for about 30 years following their departure. The current exhibition titled “Il tempo del Futurismo” will be on display at GNAM until February 2, 2025, celebrating Balla’s contributions to art.
The Italian state’s acquisition of Casa Balla will result in a permanent museum dedicated to Futurist artist Giacomo Balla. This move aims to preserve and enhance public access to a significant cultural and historical site. The purchase includes valuable original furnishings and will follow previous limited openings that celebrated Balla’s legacy. The ongoing exhibition at GNAM further highlights the importance of Balla in the art world.
