EU Green Week art competition ‘Investing in a nature-positive economy’

The Dedalo Art Competition, organised as an official partner event of the EU Green Week, actively engages artists in the European Union’s environmental agenda under the theme ‘Investing in a nature-positive economy’.

The competition focuses on agriculture and rural areas, inviting artists to interpret through art the relationship between sustainable farming, rural regeneration and economic resilience. Participants are challenged to explore how agriculture can become a driving force for repopulating rural territories, restoring social fabric and generating new income opportunities.

The exhibition of selected artworks will take place from 2 to 6 June 2026 at Galleria Dedalo, which will host all related activities. The award ceremony will be held on 6 June 2026.

In parallel with the exhibition, a series of on-site events will promote local agricultural enterprises that have played a key role in revitalising rural areas surrounding the city, previously affected by depopulation. These businesses have contributed to bringing citizens back to the countryside by creating employment, strengthening local identity and fostering sustainable land use.

Participating companies include Azienda Agricola Lucisano, focused on exotic fruit cultivation and bergamot fruit. Dedicated sessions will feature company presentations, discussions on rural development models and product tastings, offering attendees a direct experience of how nature-positive agricultural practices can generate tangible economic and social impact.

The event targets artists, policymakers, environmental stakeholders, local entrepreneurs and citizens interested in sustainable development. By combining art, agriculture and community engagement, the initiative aims to create a concrete dialogue between culture and rural innovation, reinforcing the role of creative industries in supporting Europe’s green transition.