On the evening of March 21, the Foundation for Italian Art & Culture (FIAC), a New York-based nonprofit established in 2003, celebrated Italian art’s legacy by hosting its dinner at the Racquet Club in Manhattan. This event, supported by the generosity of the Alexander Bodini Charitable Foundation, was dedicated to honoring the recipient of the 2023 FIAC Excellency Award.
In a ceremony led by FIAC Chairman Daniele Bodini and President Alain Elkann, the award was given to Giulio Manieri Elia, the esteemed Director of the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice. Manieri Elia, an alumnus of La Sapienza University with a Ph.D. from the University of Roma Tre, has been a prominent figure in the field of art history, restoration, and museology. His extensive work includes significant contributions to the history of protection and restoration, especially in Umbria post-unification of Italy, and pivotal roles in the Gallerie dell’Accademia, where he has led critical reorganization and restoration projects.
The FIAC Excellency Award, carrying a $25,000 prize, was established to acknowledge and celebrate individuals from the United States and Italy who have made significant contributions to Italian culture and the restoration of its art heritage. Manieri Elia’s selection underscores his achievements and dedication to preserving Italy’s artistic traditions.
Through its collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Cultural Affairs and leading cultural institutions, FIAC continues to foster an appreciation for Italian art across the United States, supporting both the dissemination of knowledge and the restoration of masterpieces in Italy for display abroad. The 2023 award dinner not only highlighted the rich tapestry of Italian art and culture but also reinforced the vital connections between Italy and the United States in the pursuit of cultural preservation and education.
