Censored, Then Reborn: Expo Metro’s Pivot to Rome

Public art is a dare—because it doesn’t wait for permission. In this episode of Lattes & Art (presented by J-Squared Atelier), host James William Moore takes you inside the emotional and logistical reality of what happens when a major public installation gets censored. Expo Metro’s Hong Kong edition (originally slated for Dec 5–11, 2025 on Hennessy Road in Wan Chai) was suddenly shut down after a screen owner rejected the show—then the team pulled off a full, collective pivot, relocating the entire exhibition to Rome for Jan 24–25, 2026. James shares the strategic choices he made with his Madame B tarot submission—why he curated a “safer” three-card spread (King of Swords, Three of Swords, Page of Wands), which sharper cards he intentionally withheld, and the hard lesson that sometimes censorship isn’t about one image—it’s about systems that fear unpredictability. This episode is part behind-the-scenes confession, part rallying cry: feel the loss, then find another wall.  Expo Metro: https://expometro.co/enSend us Fan MailJ-Squared Atelier, LLCFor the love of artBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow & Subscribe to Lattes & ArtStay inspired with new episodes every week! Don’t miss out on deep conversations with artists, curators, and creators exploring the vibrant world of contemporary art.Connect with Us:J-Squared Aterlier (J2Atelier)🌐 Website: J2 Atelier📸 Instagram: @J2AtelierJames William Moore🌐 Website: James William Moore📸 Instagram: @the_jwmartistLeave a Review:Love what you hear? Help us grow by leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform! Your feedback keeps us inspired. 🎙️☕Be sure to catch our sister podcast - Art Happens: The Divine Mess of Art History streaming in all the usual locations:Apple Podcast (audio)YouTube (video)Spotify (audio)