Yuri Ancarani: the importance of looking at things

Yuri Ancarani is an Italian artist and director, best known for his works of video art characterised by a documentary approach. He gained popularity after the great international success of his film Atlantis, shot in the Venice Lagoon, which earned him a nomination in the “Orizzonti” section of the 78th Venice International Film Festival and the one for the best documentary at the David di Donatello 2022.

At the age of nineteen, Ancarani moved to Milan to study, where he attended the Brera Academy of Fine Arts. We had a conversation with him about his experience of the city of Milan since he recently released “Milano”, his new project produced together with Romeo Castellucci.

As I always say, I like to look at everything. Especially what doesn’t want to be seen. I found in art a context that allows me to carry out research and protect these delicate productions from the vortex of the disposable market. I like the relationships I have with my doorman, the greengrocer and the neighbourhood butcher. I like to live in a city that functions on a more human level, as if it were a small town, but at the same time it provides the opportunity to move anywhere easily. Milan allows me to do this because it has two incredibly efficient airports. It is a connected city, yet it is difficult for artists to make their way here because it suffers from homologation. Anyway, I believe that things are changing, also thanks to the new generations.

It has been an honour to put myself at the service of a vision such as that of Romeo’s for the film “Milano“. I’ve been following his work forever. I think the city of Milan needs this film because this city must come into contact with reality and actively face this tragic moment to overcome it.

When I’m in Milan, I like to go to art spaces such as Fanta, and to PAC to admire the architecture of Ignazio Gardella, with its window overlooking the park. Then there is Zero Gallery.., not only do I work there and enjoy seeing the exhibitions of my colleagues, there is always the chance for stimulating encounters with the people visiting the gallery. I enjoy walking through the park to the Triennale and of course to HangarBicocca, because it is one of the largest exhibition spaces in Europe.

Concerning my favourite places to meet friends, favourite restaurants, bars, and outdoor spaces, I definitely wouldn’t recommend them… otherwise I wouldn’t be able to find a table anymore! I’m in Los Angeles right now, and I can assure you that the best restaurant here is no match for any restaurant found by chance in Milan. All right, I’ll give one thing away: Italo’s ‘cotoletta’ at the restaurant La Libera in Via Palermo is the absolute best, in my opinion and I have “observed” many ‘cotolette’ since living in Milan, so I’d like to think that you can trust me!