ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Siena's pioneering children's art museum turns 27

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-26

Established in 1998 within the Santa Maria della Scala museum complex, the Museo d'arte per bambini in Siena is led by Michela Eremita and emphasizes the intersection of childhood and contemporary art. Located in a historic medieval hospital, it showcases frescoes such as "Accoglienza, educazione e matrimonio di una figlia dello Spedale" by Domenico di Bartolo. The collection, which opened in 2008, features diverse international artworks displayed at a child's eye level. Among its highlights are a mirror installation by Luca Pancrazzi and a model of James II. An India-themed section presents pieces by Daniela Neri and Shilpa Gupta. In 2019, the museum launched "Il profumo delle fiabe," linking scent to storytelling, while Eremita strives for inclusive cultural programming.

Key facts

  • Museo d'arte per bambini founded in 1998 in Siena
  • Located in Santa Maria della Scala museum complex
  • Directed by Michela Eremita
  • Collection inaugurated in 2008
  • Collection themes: Fairy Tale, Portrait, Family
  • Luca Pancrazzi created a circular mirror installation
  • India section includes works by Daniela Neri, Shilpa Gupta, Mithila Art women
  • Il profumo delle fiabe project started in 2019 with University of Siena

Entities

Artists

  • Michela Eremita
  • Domenico di Bartolo
  • Luca Pancrazzi
  • Daniela Neri
  • Shilpa Gupta
  • Van Dyck

Institutions

  • Museo d'arte per bambini
  • Santa Maria della Scala
  • University of Siena
  • Museo Botanico dell'Università di Siena
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Siena
  • Italy

Sources