All the highlights from Soho Summit Rome

Last week, members gathered in the Eternal City for the latest Soho Summit, our festival of ideas and creativity powered by Porsche. Over three days, Soho House Rome hosted tastemakers and industry leaders from the worlds of art, music, film and fashion for discussions, workshops, screenings, and more. 

The intention of the summit was to answer one central question: why is creativity so vital in the modern world? Answers to this came in many forms, from both members and guests: composer Amelia Warner, who sat down in conversation with Elizabeth Day, described creativity as ‘like holding up a mirror to the best and the worst of us all.’ Actor Billie Piper suggested creativity – particularly on screen – was an important way of ‘making sense of people that aren’t you.’ For Sam Taylor-Johnson, whose new film Back To Black was screened during the summit, ‘creativity is like breathing; it’s as vital as waking up every day.’

Throughout the three days, we helped members and guests to explore the purpose of creativity, in partnership with Porsche. As part of the event, we commissioned a temporary art installation by Italian artist, Alessandro Calizza. Over 36 hours, the San Lorenzo-based artist created a live painting on the ground-floor windows and doorways to the House. 

Drawing on classical references, his work featured the agave plant, a symbol of strength due to its ability to survive in extreme conditions. Created at a time when hostility remains toward the LGBTQIA2S+ community, his surrealist work offers hope to creative communities and marginalised people. Calizza’s installation for Soho Summit took inspiration from Provence – a new colour launched with the new all-electric Porsche Macan. ‘Provence’ is a visual celebration of heritage, while recognising and embracing change – the very essence of Porsche.

Read on for more highlights that made Soho Summit Rome so special.

Wednesday 24 April 

The summit kicked off with a welcome dinner at Cecconi’s Terrazza on Soho House Rome’s 10th floor. The classic Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 welcomed international and local members into the lobby of the House, before they headed up to the rooftop. The menu included Cecconi’s favourites, such as Tuna Tartare, Veal Chops, Sea Bass, and Tiramisu. Musician and star of The White Lotus, Beatrice Grannò, took to the piano to provide a soundtrack for the evening.

Thursday 25 April

It was a busy second day in Rome, beginning with a conversation between director Sam Taylor-Johnson and actor Marisa Abela. The pair discussed their creative process and work – particularly Taylor-Johnson’s newest film, Back To Black, which sees Abela star as Amy Winehouse. The conversation was followed by a screening of the movie.  

Next, Soho House Chief Content Officer, Jonathan Heaf, interviewed designer and Aries cofounder, Sofia Prantera, about the label’s journey and success. This was followed by a conversation between Deniz Keskin, director of brand management and partnerships at Porsche; photographer Radka Leitmeritz, and journalist Jason Barlow on the importance of artist collaborations and creating experiences to bring communities together. Actor Daisy Ridley spoke to Clara Amfo about her upcoming projects and balancing the responsibilities of producing behind the scenes, as well as acting on screen. 

During the afternoon, Soho House’s Chief Art Director, Kate Bryan, hosted a talk with artist Gianni Politi, whose work features in the Soho House Rome permanent collection; musician and composer Amelia Warner discussed making waves in traditionally male-dominated industries with author and podcaster Elizabeth Day; and actor Billie Piper sat down with author Raven Smith to share her experiences of the entertainment world – and what it’s like to book a role that changes everything for you. The day’s talks ended with a conversation between Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker and producer Jessica Rhoades to discuss the show’s ongoing success and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Throughout the day, the House hosted a series of Soho Visionaries workshops in the Members’ Loft, as part of our creative series powered by Porsche. This included a colouring masterclass with artist Alessandro Calizza, collage making with photographer Chiara Bruni, artistic letter writing with artist Edoardo Servadio, and drawing in the dark with artist collective Numero Cromatico. The day culminated with Provence-inspired drinks hosted by Calizza, as well as a dinner with a musical performance by Soho Rising alumni, Griff. As evening fell, members gathered for the closing party, featuring a DJ set from Maribou State.

Friday 26 April

The final day of saw menswear designer Neil Barrett in conversation with author Raven Smith. Barrett cut his teeth at Gucci and Prada before launching his namesake brand in 2000. He and Smith discussed his journey to success, as well future plans for the brand, which counts Brad Pitt and Jamie Dornan as fans.