Emilio and Annabianca Vedova Foundation

The Emilio and Annabianca Vedova Foundation, located in the Dorsoduro district of Venice, is one of the most important centers for contemporary art in Italy. Founded in 2009 by the renowned artist Emilio Vedova and his wife Annabianca, the foundation aims to preserve, promote, and enhance Vedova’s work, as well as promote cultural and artistic initiatives internationally. Emilio Vedova (1919-2006) was one of the leading exponents of informal art in Italy. His artistic career is characterized by a continuous expressive research and a political and social commitment that deeply influenced his production. Vedova’s works are known for their dynamic use of color and the gestural force of the brushstroke, expressing a profound emotional tension and a critique of contemporary society. The foundation is based in two distinct locations: the Magazzino del Sale and the Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti. The Magazzino del Sale, located along the Grand Canal, is an exhibition space created from an ancient warehouse used for salt storage. This space, renovated and adapted for exhibition needs, offers a suggestive and versatile environment for temporary and permanent exhibitions. The Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti, on the other hand, is one of the most fascinating historic residences in Venice. This Gothic palace, located next to the Accademia Bridge, houses the foundation’s offices and part of the permanent collections. The refined architecture and interiors of the palace offer an interesting contrast with Vedova’s contemporary works, creating a stimulating dialogue between past and present. The Emilio and Annabianca Vedova Foundation not only preserves and exhibits Vedova’s works, but also organizes a series of cultural and educational activities. Among these are temporary exhibitions dedicated to contemporary artists, conferences, workshops, and educational programs for schools. These initiatives aim to promote knowledge of contemporary art and stimulate creativity and critical thinking among young people. One of the most significant exhibitions hosted by the foundation was “Vedova Plurimo,” a retrospective that traced the artist’s entire career, highlighting his stylistic evolution and his ability to constantly renew himself. The exhibition presented a wide selection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and installations, offering visitors a complete view of Vedova’s work and his contribution to 20th-century art. Another highly relevant event was the project “Vedova: from drawing to sign,” an exhibition that explored the role of drawing in Vedova’s artistic practice. The exhibition highlighted how drawing was not only a means of preparation for Vedova, but an autonomous language capable of expressing the same emotional intensity as his paintings. The foundation also collaborates with important cultural and museum institutions internationally, promoting exchanges and common projects. These collaborations help strengthen the role of the Vedova Foundation as a center of excellence for contemporary art and spread knowledge of Vedova’s work worldwide. In addition to exhibitions and cultural activities, the Emilio and Annabianca Vedova Foundation is committed to the conservation and study of the artist’s works. A team of experts constantly works to ensure the preservation of the works and deepen knowledge of their historical and artistic context. This research work is essential to preserve Vedova’s artistic heritage and promote its enhancement internationally. From a social and political perspective, the foundation reflects Vedova’s commitment to a fairer and more democratic society. Vedova’s works, with their expressive power and strong visual language, are a testament to his civil commitment and his critique of the injustices of the contemporary world. Through its activities, the foundation continues to promote these values, contributing to raising awareness among the public on issues of great social and political relevance.