Recently, a group of Temple students and I had the opportunity to tour MAXXI, the National Museum of 21st Century Arts, in Flaminio, Rome. Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, MAXXI showcases contemporary Italian art and architecture. Spending time in the museum gave me a different way of understanding Rome, by unveiling contemporary and dynamic perspectives.
As a student studying abroad, I have been placed in the middle of a new culture. This experience can be overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes easy to oversimplify. Exploring new perspectives is an important way to expand the lens through which we understand the culture around us. The MAXXI museum has helped me broaden my view of Rome beyond its ancient history and recognize that Italian culture is not stagnant but continuous and evolving.
At the MAXXI museum, there is a large exhibit dedicated to the artist and illustrator Andrea Pazienza. His work was largely inspired by Italian politics, youth culture, and societal shifts during his lifetime. The exhibit allowed me to see through a contemporary lens how the expressions and ideas of an individual can contribute to the ever-evolving cultural landscape of Italy.
