Strangolagalli Painting Extempore – Franco Tomassi Memorial

A memorial celebrating art and the local area

Launched in the summer of 2025, the Strangolagalli Painting Extempore is an artistic event dedicated to the memory of Professor Franco Tomassi, a beloved local figure. The initiative, titled "Between art, narrow streets, and nature," brings dozens of painters to the heart of this Ciociaria village. Over the course of a single day, they create original works live, drawing inspiration from the views, landscapes, and identity of the area. The goal is clear: to showcase the local landscape and cultural heritage through the eyes and talent of the artists.

The village becomes an open-air gallery

During the event, the historic center of Strangolagalli—a small town in the province of Frosinone overlooking the Liri Valley in southern Lazio—transforms into a true open-air gallery. Artists' stations are scattered throughout the alleys and squares, allowing visitors to wander freely, watch the works take shape hour by hour, chat with the artists, and rediscover the corners of the village with fresh eyes. It is a simple yet engaging format that blends an art competition with a community celebration.

Children's workshops and sunset awards

The day is not just for professionals. The program for the inaugural edition included painting workshops for children, introducing the youngest ones to art in a fun and interactive way. The highlight occurs at sunset, when a jury of experts evaluates the works created during the day and awards a prize to the best painter of the edition.

The partnership with StranGusto

The extempore event was created in partnership with StranGusto, the street food festival organized by the Pro Loco of Strangolagalli in Piazza Elena. Gastronomic stands featuring Ciociaria specialties and street food, live music, and DJ sets liven up the evening following the awards ceremony. This art-meets-gastronomy combination has turned the day into a widespread festival capable of animating the entire village and attracting visitors from neighboring towns in the Ciociaria region.

A young event to keep an eye on

As this was an inaugural event (August 2025), the schedule for future editions is not yet set in stone. For 2026, the Pro Loco has already announced StranGusto for late July, while the return of the painting extempore has not yet been officially confirmed. For those who love en plein air painting and the small villages of Lazio, it remains an event to keep an eye on through the channels of the Pro Loco and the Municipality of Strangolagalli.