Living in the Volcano: exhibitions and workshops in Pozzuoli

Living in the Volcano: exhibitions and events in Pozzuoli

The fifth edition of Living in the Volcano is part of the official programme for the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Japan. The festival turns the Campi Flegrei into a widespread cultural laboratory, combining scientific research, visual arts and school education.

Start and duration: opening on Thursday, April 30 at 10:00 at the early Christian necropolis of San Vito (Villa Elvira, via San Vito 9), Pozzuoli. The event runs from April 30 to June 30.

Programme highlights

• Opening exhibitions: the photography show Solfatara. Where the earth breathes by Maurizio Silva and a fan-art estemporanea titled Anime, fuoco e sensu, created by students of the Ettore Majorana Art High School.
• Workshops: interdisciplinary school labs across the Phlegraean towns and free public manga courses led by Axel Perugino, exploring volcanic themes, visual art and Japanese narrative techniques.
• Scientific talks: events with volcanologists from the Vesuvius Observatory, including Sandro de Vita and Mauro Di Vito, plus guided vulcanology sessions linking scientific knowledge to local heritage.
• Vernissage: the programme culminates on June 6 with the vernissage Iconic Mountains of Fire. From Vesuvius to Fuji: Art in Eruption, curated by Anna Russolillo, Anna Abbate and Doriana Vriale; the exhibition remains open until June 30.
• Artist meetings: on May 18 a session with artists will be held at Pina Testa’s studio featuring several masters and guests.

Curators, partners and purpose

Conceived by Anna Russolillo and curated by a multidisciplinary team, the festival is promoted by Lunaria A2 with the support of scientific and cultural institutions. Its aim is to narrate how volcanoes shape identity and artistic expression in both Campania and Japan, fostering cultural exchange.

Audience: general public, schools and enthusiasts of visual arts, comics and Earth sciences. For precise schedules and participation details, check the organisers’ official communications.