Can you believe it’s August already? Where is the time going?! That means it’s time for another ArtSmart post as part of the ArtSmart Roundtable (follow along on Facebook for creative travel-related posts). This month’s theme is water, so I’ve kind of thought a little outside the box (forgive me!).
Venice. I love Venice. It’s been a while since I visited, but there was something about the narrow streets, the amazing canal views, and the fairytale architecture that’s had a hold on my heart ever since. So, today, as part of the ArtSmart theme of water, I’ve decided to divert my attention back to this lovely city once more. You get it, right? Because of all the water there?
I remember traipsing through a number of renaissance and classic art museums whilst I was in Venice, but it was the Guggenheim that really stood out for me. I’m a huge fan of contemporary art, and I’ve put together a selection of some of the best contemporary art galleries in Venice just in case you’re a huge fan of it, too!
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Dorsoduro, 701-704, 30123 Venezia
This is perhaps the most popular collection of contemporary art in Venice. Set in the quirky surroundings of an 18th century Grand Canal palazzo, the museum pays homage to some of the world’s most well-known artists, including works by the likes of Picasso, Duchamp, Max Ernst (who Peggy Guggenheim was married to for a short while), and Jackson Pollock. If you’re looking for an overview of 20th century art, then make a bee-line for this collection.
Punta della Dogana
Dorsoduro, 2, 30123 Venezia
Though situated close to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, this new gallery is much, much younger than its world-famous counterpart. The gallery can be found inside the 17th century warehouses at the Punta, an area that had long been neglected before it was auctioned off to Francois Pinault, a French fashion magnate. It’s his collection that is on display there now, featuring what’s thought to be one of the largest private collections of 20th and 21st century art anywhere, with pieces by Jeff Koons, Dan Flavin, and Rachel Whiteread to name just a few.
Giudecca 795 Art Gallery
Fondamenta S. Biagio, 795, 30133 Giudecca, Venezia
Located on the Venetian island of Giudecca inside a 16th century palazzetto known as Palazzo Foscari, this contemporary art gallery showcases the work of up and coming local and international artists. It covers all manner of mediums, from photography and sculpture, to painting, design, and video, and it is one of the hottest spaces in Venice for new talents to highlight their work.
Ravagnan Art Gallery
Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia
Opened back in 1967 and founded by Luciano Ravagnan, this art gallery is one of the oldest contemporary art spaces in Venice. Set in San Marco Square, it boasts an iconic backdrop that stems back hundreds of years. Inside, though, the artworks are some of the city’s more contemporary offerings, featuring local names such as Ludovico De Luigi, Matthias Kostner, Fabrizio Plessi, and Carlo Ravagnan, as well as some international names, too.
Bugno Art Gallery
S. Marco, 1996/d, 30124 Venezia
Bugno Art Gallery was opened back in 1991 and, since then, it has formed a pivotal part of Venice’s contemporary art scene. Throughout the years it has represented numerous local artists who have gone on to become big-name sensations, as well as international, well-known talents. The gallery is known for holding a number of fairs, too, where it showcases its work to collectors and art enthusiasts.
Galleria l’Occhio
Sestiere Dorsoduro, 30123 Venezia
At just 100 metres away from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the Galleria l’Occhio is a great place to add onto any contemporary art tour of Venice. Like the Bugno, it opened its doors back in 1991 and, since then, has been showcasing the work of young Italian and international artists within its two gallery spaces.
Have you been to any of these or do you have any more to add to this list?!
For the rest of August’s ArtSmart Roundtable posts see:
- Bern’s Fantastic Fountains by Christina of Daydream Tourist
- Art as Seen From the Water by Murissa of Wanderfull Traveler
- The Dutch and Water: A Complex Relationship by Pal and Lydian of Art Weekenders
More coming soon!
HI and thanks so much for spreading the word aobut our art galleries – one thing though – your title says 7, I am counting 6, where is the 7th? You could add Contini Art Gallery, the most famous! 😉 ciaoo Monica
I love this post because most people don’t think of contemporary art galleries in Venice. Pinning for future reference
Thanks Jenna! Hope it comes in handy
Venice is one of my favourite cities of the world (I wrote a guide inspired by my trips).
It’s such a magical place and there are so many hidden spots that most of the tourists don’t get to see – mostly because they are catching their cruise ship. Venice is a city you just have to spend a week or more to get to know it and then return again to get to know her more.
I was fortunate enough to experience the Peggy Guggenheim collection during my first trip for an art history study abroad course of the Veneto in 2010. Such an amazing place. Great list Lizzie!
So true about the hidden magical spots! I spent most of my time there getting lost down little laneways and exploring behind the major attractions. I loved the Guggenheim and I actually visited as part of my art history course too 😀
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What a great timing with this post. We’re about to fly to Venice as a starting point for our trip to Croatia later this month. Guess we have to set some time apart to see these places! Very good out of the box thinking by the way! 😉
I absolutely LOVE Venice — you’ll have a blast!