Art is quite a complex and narrow term and has long-lasting effects on society. There is no denying that art from a given time in history or a distinct geographical location can offer insights into a culture that we would otherwise have no knowledge of. But sometimes art also tells us more about the artist than the society and culture that surrounds them. At times art feels like it reflects the very core of humanity, and at other times, it is purely aesthetic. And through all of it, it becomes quite evident that artists have many different roles, but no matter what their purpose is or what medium they use, they all share the same purpose: to create art. Art that is beautiful, art that is political, art that challenges, and above all, art that changes society for the better. From antique cave painters to today’s contemporary artists, the role of an artist has remained consistent: to provide communities with joy and inspiration and allow them to give thoughtful critique to society’s political, economic, and social systems.
One such individual is Dalia Gallico; a prominent figure in the world of modern art who has spent over thirty years paving the way for future generations of artists. With an illustrious career spanning multiple industries, including education, literature, fashion design, and art direction, Gallico has become a symbol of success in her field. Born and raised in Italy, she quickly made her space in the global industry.
Gallico’s academic achievements are nothing short of impressive. In 1991, she graduated with a degree in architecture from the prestigious Politecnico di Milano, setting the stage for her future success. From there, she went on to complete the Biennial Course of International Specialization at La Scala Theatre Academy in 1995, followed by a specialized course in art and culture and training from SDA Bocconi in 1996. The same year, she earned a Master of Specialisation in Artistic Management from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, further honing her skills in the arts.
Gallico’s passion for knowledge continued to drive her, leading her to complete a refresher course at the Master of Research and Development of Artistic and Cultural Heritage from the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa in 1997. Since then, she has been continuously engaged in various academic, professional, and digital courses, exhibiting an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and dedication to her craft.
Dalia Gallico’s illustrious career in the field of fashion and design has spanned more than three decades, during which she has held various prestigious positions and showcased her expertise and knowledge in different aspects of the industry. Her career journey began as a costume designer at the world-renowned Teatro Alla Scala in 1993, after which she moved on to become the Director of Training at the National Chamber of Italian Fashion in 1998.
In 2003, she established ArtLab, a scientific research center with an international reach that focuses on innovation in cultural domains related to art, creativity, and culture. As her career progressed, Gallico’s contributions to the world of design earned her international recognition, and she was invited to share her expertise at esteemed institutions worldwide. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor at the China Central Academy of Fine Art (CAFA) and San Raffaele University in Rome, where she imparts her knowledge and experience to aspiring designers. Moreover, Gallico has also taught at various institutions such as the Design Education Research Centre, APDF, Nanchang University, and the National Institute of Design in Paldi, Ahmedabad, India.
In addition to her teaching positions, Gallico has held several esteemed leadership positions, including that of the President of the ADI Lombardia Industrial Design Association, San Raffaele Telematic University Rome, and the ArtLab ETS Association. Her contributions as the Art Director for Palazzo Reale in Milan from 2004 have also been notable. Presently, she serves as the Director of Training and Employment Services, the Scientific Director of “Istituto del Colore” and Colore magazine, and the Director of Fondazione Leonardo da Vinci in Italy since 2023.
Additionally, Gallico has been an active member of several boards and committees, including the Friends of Teatro alla Scala Association, the Executive and Scientific Council at the National Committee of Italian Fashion and Accessories, and the A. Pini Foundation. She is also affiliated with the Asia Pacific Designers Federation (APDF), the International Creative Arts Alliance (ICAA), the Angelo Rizzoli Foundation for Information and Communication Technologies, and the Cantieri dell’Arte Foundation for Innovative Technologies for Cultural Heritage and Activities.
Apart from her previous roles, Gallico has also contributed to the implementation of various significant projects, curated numerous art exhibitions on a diverse range of topics and ideas, and extensively worked on female employment in the fashion sector.
In conclusion, Professor Dalia Gallico is a true inspiration to the worlds of art, design, and culture. Her exceptional career achievements and contributions to the industry have earned her a well-deserved reputation as a distinguished professional. Moreover, the fashion and design industry owes a great deal to Gallico for her unwavering dedication, her contributions, and the remarkable legacy she has created.