Pola Francesca

Francesca Pola is Associate Professor of Contemporary Art History at the Faculty of Philosophy, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele in Milan. She teaches courses including Art Criticism, Art Literature, and Digital Visual Arts. She is actively involved in research centers ICONE and CRISI, and serves on the editorial team of the Critical Journal of the History of Ideas. Her academic affiliations also include roles at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and IES Abroad in Milan.

• PhD, Postgraduate Degree, Degree – Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan

Her research focuses on 20th-century Italian and international art, with special attention to movements such as Azimut/h and ZERO, and key figures like Piero Manzoni, Lucio Fontana, and Ugo Mulas. She explores abstract art, kinetic and programmed art, contemporary sculpture, and the evolving nature of painting and digital culture. Her interdisciplinary work bridges art history, philosophy, and digital innovation, particularly in NFTs and multimedia installations.

Her recent publications (2023–2024) reflect a strong engagement with digital art, accessibility, and interdisciplinary approaches. Themes include the work of Studio Azzurro, François Morellet, Mario Nigro, and the intersection of NFTs with neuroscience and technology. These works highlight her focus on post-digital culture, sensory experience, and the philosophical dimensions of visual art.

Scientific Awards:

• Fulbright Distinguished Lecturer (2016)

Francesca Pola has served as a PhD supervisor and committee member at UNISR and Tor Vergata University. She has led major curatorial and research projects for institutions like Intesa Sanpaolo, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and MACRO Museum. She has also developed multimedia itineraries for Gallerie d’Italia and contributed to numerous editorial boards and scientific committees. Her public engagement includes organizing seminars, exhibitions, and events on gender, digital art, and AI.

She leads research initiatives through the ICONE and CRISI Research Centers and contributes to the curation of post-war Italian artists’ archives. Her work extends to environmental art sites like the Museo d’Arte Contemporanea all’Aperto di Morterone and Villa Pisani, reflecting her commitment to cultural heritage enhancement.