Howtan Space Opens in Rome with Erwin Blumenfeld Exhibition

Howtan Space, a new art venue in Rome, will open on February 14 with a solo show of Erwin Blumenfeld. Founded by Iranian-born artist Howtan Re (Tehran, 1974), the space is conceived as a dynamic laboratory where art, design, architecture, and fashion intersect. Located near Largo Argentina, it joins recent openings Musia and Fòndaco in enriching Rome's cultural scene. Re, who began his visual arts career as a photographer in 2003 encouraged by Achille Bonito Oliva, aims to create a non-traditional gallery—a 'living room' for artists that prioritizes sharing and exchange. The space is managed with Andrea Saran and curator Barbara Martusciello. The opening exhibition, curated by Giuliano Matricardi, features 10 vintage black-and-white photographs by Blumenfeld taken between 1938 and 1955 in Paris and New York, created through acid manipulation. Four contemporary editions from Art+Commerce are also displayed, including 'Lisa Fonssagrives on the Eiffel Tower,' an iconic image linking Blumenfeld to Vogue. The show was made possible by Yvette George Blumenfeld Deeton, Blumenfeld Estate NYC, and Art+Commerce. Blumenfeld (Berlin, 1897 – Rome, 1969) was known for blending fashion with Surrealism, using mirrors, screens, and light play. Re plans future projects involving children and sensory experiences to engage a broad audience, with rotating curators for each exhibition.