VENUS: Valentino Garavani through the eyes of Joana Vasconcelos
The world of fashion and art has come together in a unique exhibition, VENUS: Valentino Garavani through the eyes of Joana Vasconcelos, presented by the Fondazione Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti at their exhibition and cultural space, PM23. This exhibition is a tribute to the creative universe of Valentino Garavani, reinterpreted through the distinctive vision of Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.
A Celebration of Creativity and Inclusion
The exhibition, which opened on January 18, 2026, at Piazza Mignanelli 23, near the Spanish Steps in Rome, features installations by Joana Vasconcelos alongside Valentino creations. One of the highlights of the exhibition is Valkyrie VENUS, a massive sculpture inspired by eight of Valentino’s iconic dresses. This sculpture was created through a participatory social process involving over 200 contributors, including fashion students, refugees, prisoners, and hospital patients, showcasing the power of creativity and community.
According to Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti, “VENUS was born from the desire to celebrate creativity in all its forms, as a bridge between art, fashion, and community.” They further stated, “With this project, we wanted to create a space where beauty and innovation meet participation and inclusion, transforming artistic expression into an opportunity for dialogue and sharing.” This vision is reflected in the exhibition, which blends the worlds of fashion and contemporary art, presenting a poetic journey into the creative universe of Valentino Garavani.
A Tribute to Valentino Garavani
The exhibition opened just a day after the passing of Italian fashion legend Valentino Garavani, aged 93, in Rome. This timely tribute celebrates his legacy and creative genius, which continues to inspire artists and designers around the world. The exhibition will run until May 31, 2026, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty and innovation of Valentino’s designs through the eyes of Joana Vasconcelos.
Tickets for the exhibition are available via the PM23 website or can be purchased at the ticket office in Piazza Mignanelli. For more information, visit the Here to learn more about this unique exhibition and the creative vision of Valentino Garavani and Joana Vasconcelos.