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Venise '55/'65: Berengo Gardin and Del Pero's Photographic Dialogue at Fondation Wilmotte

exhibition · 2026-05-05

The exhibition 'Venise '55/'65' at the Fondation Wilmotte in Venice presents 54 black-and-white photographs by Gianni Berengo Gardin (born 1930) and Sergio Del Pero (1913–1987). Organized in collaboration with the Circolo Fotografico La Gondola, the show contrasts Gardin's iconic, candid street photography with Del Pero's architectural and everyday scenes, creating a visual dialogue between two complementary talents. Gardin, known as 'the greatest known Italian photographer,' emphasizes his professional craftsmanship, while Del Pero, 'the greatest unknown Italian photographer,' was a cabinetmaker by trade who amassed over 800 competition awards. The exhibition has attracted notable public interest, especially among Venetians and photography enthusiasts.

Key facts

  • Exhibition 'Venise '55/'65' runs at Fondation Wilmotte in Venice
  • 54 black-and-white photographs by Gianni Berengo Gardin and Sergio Del Pero
  • Organized by Fondation Wilmotte and Circolo Fotografico La Gondola
  • Berengo Gardin born in Santa Margherita Ligure in 1930
  • Sergio Del Pero born in Murano in 1913, died in Mestre in 1987
  • Del Pero was a cabinetmaker and amateur photographer with over 800 awards
  • Gardin is described as 'the greatest known Italian photographer'
  • Del Pero is described as 'the greatest unknown Italian photographer'

Entities

Artists

  • Gianni Berengo Gardin
  • Sergio Del Pero
  • Adriana Scalise

Institutions

  • Fondation Wilmotte
  • Circolo Fotografico La Gondola
  • Artribune
  • Biennale di Venezia

Locations

  • Venice
  • Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Murano
  • Mestre
  • Italy

Sources