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Florence Biennale 2017: 20th Anniversary with 462 Artists from 12 Categories

festival-fair · 2026-05-05

The 11th Florence Biennale commenced at Fortezza da Basso, showcasing 462 artists from around the world. Italy is represented by 65 artists, while China follows with 60. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the theme revolves around creativity and sustainability. Notably, this year marks the first time the Italian UNESCO commission is a patron of the event. The exhibition features 1,300 pieces across 12 categories, with the youngest artist being Grifory Antipov, born in Moscow in 1999. Curated by Melanie Zefferino, the event includes a collateral program with conferences, educational activities, and performances. Tim Bengel, the guest of honor, will honor Florence with a special tribute. The 'Lorenzo il Magnifico' awards will recognize Arata Isozaki, Sauro Cavallini (in memoriam), and El Anatsui, with key conferences set for October 8, 11, and 12.

Key facts

  • 11th edition of Florence Biennale, 20th anniversary
  • 462 artists from around the world
  • Italy leads with 65 artists, China second with 60
  • Theme: creativity and sustainability
  • First-time patronage from Italian UNESCO commission
  • 1,300 works across 12 artistic categories
  • Youngest participant: Grifory Antipov (b. 1999, Moscow)
  • Lorenzo il Magnifico awards to Arata Isozaki, Sauro Cavallini (in memoriam), El Anatsui

Entities

Artists

  • Grifory Antipov
  • Tim Bengel
  • Arata Isozaki
  • Sauro Cavallini
  • El Anatsui
  • Marina Abramović
  • Gilbert & George
  • Anish Kapoor
  • David Hockney
  • Valentina Silvestrini
  • Antonio Natali

Institutions

  • Florence Biennale
  • UNESCO
  • Accademia di San Pietroburgo
  • Artribune
  • Artribune Magazine

Locations

  • Florence
  • Italy
  • China
  • Iran
  • South America
  • Moscow
  • Russia
  • Fortezza da Basso
  • Piazza della Signoria
  • Padiglione Spadolini

Sources