XV Florence Biennale 2025: international art and design exhibition at the Fortezza da Basso

The XV Florence Biennale is the highly anticipated international art and design exhibition that will take place from October 18 to 26, 2025, at the historic Fortezza da Basso in Florence.

This world-renowned event is an extraordinary showcase for artists, designers, and creatives from every corner of the globe, offering a unique platform for presenting the most innovative contemporary artistic expressions.

Every two years, the Biennale transforms Florence into a veritable cultural hub, attracting collectors, art critics, and enthusiasts who wish to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of international art and design.

The event not only exhibits works of the highest caliber, but also promotes a profound dialogue between different artistic disciplines, highlighting the influences and experimentation that define future trends.

Participating in the Florence Biennale therefore means not only admiring extraordinary creations, but also enjoying a complete cultural experience that reflects the vitality and evolution of the global art scene.

Light and darkness: the theme of the XV Florence Biennale 2025

The theme of the 15th edition of the Florence Biennale, scheduled to take place from 18 to 26 October 2025, is dedicated to the primordial and eternal union between light and darkness. This universal dualism long at the heart of artistic, scientific, philosophical, and literary reflection—is the common thread that links the artworks and projects featured in the exhibition.

Artists and designers from all over the world have been invited to interpret this symbolic and visual contrast through their own languages and sensibilities. From luminous installations that interact with space, to abstract canvases, conceptual and multimedia works, light as knowledge and darkness as mystery become tools for exploring the human condition, identity, and time.

The result is an immersive and interdisciplinary artistic journey, traversing materials, forms, and visions, reaffirming the Florence Biennale as one of the most important international observatories on contemporary art.
The Featured Artists of the Florence Biennale 2025

Hundreds of international artists are taking part in the 15th edition of the Florence Biennale, presenting works that span a wide range of disciplines and styles from figurative to abstract, from digital media to material experimentation.

The most prominent artist announced for the 2025 edition is undoubtedly Tim Burton. The renowned American director and artist will receive the prestigious “Lorenzo il Magnifico” International Lifetime Achievement Award on 21 October, and will present a solo exhibition tied to this year’s theme: “The Sublime Essence of Light and Darkness. Concepts of Dualism and Unity in Contemporary Art and Design.”

Alongside guest of honor Tim Burton, international artists such as Ana Pinho Vargas (Portugal), Patricia Saada Baumann (USA), and Ivana Mašitová (Czech Republic), a master of glass art, will also be present.

Confirmed artists include Seema Kohli and Neeraj Gupta from India—both known for exploring spirituality, materiality, and urban space—as well as Stefano Alvino from Italy, whose visual language blends street art with abstract painting.

Visitors will be able to admire creations from across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, all gathered in a single space that symbolizes Florence’s cultural heritage. The Florence Biennale also offers an opportunity to discover emerging talents and new visual languages.
How to get to the Fortezza da Basso in Florence

The Fortezza da Basso is easily accessible from the center of Florence, either on foot or by public transportation.

From Santa Maria Novella train station, it’s about a 10-minute walk, or you can take local buses 6, 14, or 23.

For those arriving by car, paid parking is available nearby, such as at the Parcheggio Fortezza and the Garage Porta al Prato.
Where to Stay in Florence During the 15th Florence Biennale: FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli

To fully enjoy the experience of the Florence Biennale, a comfortable and centrally located stay is essential.

FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli, situated in the heart of Florence’s historic center, is the perfect choice.

Just a short walk from Piazza del Duomo and Fortezza da Basso, the hotel offers modern rooms, high-quality services, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Thanks to its strategic location, guests can easily reach all major attractions on foot and, of course, the Biennale itself.
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