Circolo La Gondola Turns 70 with 'Codice Sorgente' Exhibition in Venice

The Circolo Fotografico La Gondola in Venice celebrates its 70th anniversary with the exhibition 'Codice Sorgente 1948 / 2018' at Palazzetto Tito. Founded in 1948 by Paolo Monti, Gino Bolognini, Giorgio Bresciani, and Luciano Scattola, the amateur photography club has maintained a vibrant community. The show pairs archival photographs from the club's 30,000-vintage collection with new works, creating a dialogue between past and present. A catalog accompanies the exhibition, featuring contributions from Massimo Stefanutti, Manfredo Manfroi, and a historical essay by Nicola Bustreo. Current president Massimo Stefanutti discusses the club's evolution under previous president Manfredo Manfroi, who focused on digitizing the archive and relocating it to Casa dei Tre Oci on Giudecca. Since 2016, the club has shifted toward contemporary photography while historicizing its seven-decade legacy. Stefanutti also reflects on photography's maturity, dismissing digital as merely a technical evolution. The exhibition fosters conviviality and intergenerational connection among members.