The Istituto Italiano di Cultura Toronto has called upon eight thinkers, each in different fields, to reflect upon the changes and transformations imposed on our lives by the effects of the pandemic.

Soon after the outbreak first hit China, Italy and the world, it became clear that it was not to be a temporary, superficial disruption. The drastic measures of containment and the strict lockdown imposed by the authorities in order to limit the spread of the virus, as well as the constant exposure to the threat of an invisible danger, have forced us all to abruptly and radically modify our social and daily life habits.

Social relationships, work environments, use of public spaces, all the different aspects of our life have suddenly changed in a way that would have once seemed unconceivable. A moment of serious reflection and thought is necessary in order to start drafting a new theoretical framework to respond to the transformations.

Together with curators Sascha Hastings and Francesca Molteni, we have chosen to focus on four key concepts: Void, Breath, Body, Care. The Italian and Canadian thinkers will each discuss the transformation from their own perspective as it relates to their individual field of expertise.

Using these four concepts as metaphorical cardinal directions, our hope is that the outcome of the discussions will give us a sense of direction as we navigate through this collective experience.

Alessandro Ruggera, Director, Istituto Italiano di Cultura Toronto