Culture
Pinault Collection: Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana, San Marco and Dorsoduro
Given the calibre of artists routinely assembled by the Biennale, it’s no surprise that Venice is home to world-class institutions that operate all year. Some of the biggest names on the global art circuit have run spaces here. A fine example is the Pinault Collection, which is housed in both the 18th-century Palazzo Grassi and the atmospheric Punta della Dogana. Both were remodelled by Japanese architect Tadao Ando and host some of the city’s most cutting-edge contemporary shows.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Dorsoduro
Collector Peggy Guggenheim was one of Venice’s most illustrious (and glamorous) residents. After acquiring the unfinished Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal for use as her personal home, she opened it up to the public for exhibitions. Today, it is still a reminder of her defining role in shaping the history of modern art. Inside the low-slung structure, not to mention its serene gardens, are works by artists such as Marcel Duchamp, Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky.
Fondazione Querini Stampalia, Castello
Though it hosts remarkable exhibitions of historical and contemporary art, and is also home to a well-stocked library, the Fondazione Querini Stampalia is perhaps most fascinating for its architectural treasure. Modernist master Carlo Scarpa was tasked with refitting some of the 16th-century palazzo; his intervention on the lower floors is a wonder that sees his streamlined use of concrete accommodate the city’s acqua alta tides.
Mare Karina, Castello
As art collectors gather in the city for the Biennale year after year, a healthy ecosystem of commercial galleries has developed in town. Among the most interesting are those run by young talent, who bring an intrepid spirit to their programming. Treviso-born Marta Barina worked in London for a decade before returning to Italy and opening this multi-disciplinary space near Arsenale in 2024. Its focus on undiscovered and up-and-coming talent rewards the curious.
Teatro Malibran, Cannaregio
It’s not just the world-famous Teatro La Fenice where you can catch music shows in mesmerising, gilded surroundings. Inaugurated in the 17th century, Teatro Malibran was once the most luxurious theatre in Venice. Now its stage is resplendent once more and plays host to ballet productions and concerts of all kinds, including some experimental displays as part of the Biennale Musica.
