When John Coltrane abandoned the old jazz rooted in technique and rhythm to move toward a more spiritual and liberated dimension, he was already considered one of the most celebrated saxophonists of all time and had collaborated with indispensable figures such as Miles Davis, contributing to landmark records like Kind of Blue. It was 1963 and, much as Bob Dylan would introduce the electric guitar into folk and country atmospheres two years later, Coltrane infused virtuosic performance with spiritual tension, guiding entire generations toward the discovery of free jazz. For the thirtieth anniversary of Miart 2026, Milan’s landmark art fair, curator Nicola Ricciardi chose the title New Directions, referring to that crucial moment when Coltrane transformed his musical language, becoming one with his inner dimension.
The very nature of the fair, now entering its third decade, should therefore be rooted in change: in the desire to break free from the conventions of the system, to experiment and transform commercial events such as this one, opening up to the new and embracing a more authentic spirit. Change is first reflected in the venue itself: the South Wing of Allianz MiCo, in the CityLife district, a section of the old trade fair complex spread across three floors and distinguished by a steel-scaled roof reminiscent of a dragon’s back. Ascending the stairs and passing through the doors of the new entrance, visitors are welcomed by a relaxation and refreshment area, followed by a section dedicated to leading contemporary art magazines.
Contemporary art highlights not to miss at Miart
The uppermost floor is finally devoted to the Established Anthology section, bringing together twenty selected historic galleries. It is a level that is difficult to access and only lightly emphasized within the exhibition route, yet it appears as a luminous treasure chest with a broad installation-oriented vision, thanks to its higher ceilings, generous circulation spaces, and a booth arrangement that enhances every individual work on display.
Here we find [...] a triptych of works by the Spatialist artist Dadamaino from 1965, once considered unattainable and highly coveted, presented by Galleria d’Arte Maggiore.
