This year I will be at the Meeting as a volunteer, serving as curator and guide for the exhibition on one of the greatest painters of the 20th century, William Congdon. This is the sixth exhibition I have curated for the Meeting, and many years ago, I also had fun working on the first edition of the Meeting Daily. I recently read a book about De Gasperi titled "The Builder," which I believe perfectly encapsulates the role of the Meeting—a place that builds relationships, knowledge, and friendships. It’s a place where many "builders" meet year after year. Participating in its construction, as so many do—before, during, and after—is an experience that is, if not unique, certainly rare in its usefulness to the world.  

I have a friend, a former communist, who recently attended the Meeting and told me, "You are the only ones left doing these things," struck by the mix of high-level speakers and the general public, of beauty and sociability. I believe it is precisely this contribution of intelligence to reality, of 360-degree openness, and the possibility of encounter that makes it worthwhile, first and foremost for oneself and for the people one cares about, to support the Meeting: by donating work, money, or presence. In short, come join us. 

Ubaldo Casotto
curator and guide for the exhibition