SMALL TALKS
SMALL TALK is a meeting program designed by Florìda to create a space for free expression, an unconventional opportunity for peer-to-peer discussion, in which each participant could express his or her opinion without fear of judgment, hierarchies or roles. The goal was to foster an authentic and direct dialogue. Guest artists introduced themes inspired by their research, offering insights and raising questions that stimulated free and spontaneous conversations. Limiting the number of participants to 25 per event made it possible to generate an intimate and welcoming atmosphere similar to that of a dinner among friends. This structure enhanced artistic practice as a tool for contemporary experimentation and an engine for building relationships. Thus, Each meeting was transformed into a meaningful moment for the neighbourhood and the local community.
In 2023 and 2024, Florìda hosted 10 SMALL TALK meetings, engaging more than 200 participants in its space. Each event was an opportunity to share a dinner and address a different theme, introduced by the artistic practice of the evening's host. In total, 10 artists were invited, 750 dishes were served, and over 6 hours of democratic and participatory conversations were shared. These encounters provided a unique moment of exchange, allowing interaction between international artists, downtown residents, neighbours, area activists, arts professionals, students and just curious passers-by. The meetings were structured in three courses, each with a discussion topic. Each topic was addressed for a maximum of 20 minutes, punctuated by the sound of a timer that indicated the transition to the next course and theme.
SMALL TALK proved to be an effective tool for meeting new people, delving into topics relevant to us, talking about art and the territory, and experimenting with innovative ways of confrontation. It proposed an open mode for anyone who wanted to participate, thus attracting a diverse audience, with no distinction between art experts and the merely curious.
Each meeting became an unrepeatable moment, where participants found space to dialogue and confront each other. Discussions often lasted beyond the established time limits, helping to create a lively and participatory community of ideas. SMALL TALKS 2024 series of meetings was realized with the support of the "Participazione al the Centro" call for proposals from Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo.