Art and culture

Rome’s must-see art exhibitions for 2022

October 07, 2022

As you explore Rome’s historic streets, dip behind its doorways to discover a diverse art world. From the genius of Van Gogh to contemporary art rebels, here are our top picks of the city’s must-see exhibitions this autumn and winter.

Van Gogh

To mark the 170^th anniversary of Van Gogh’s birth, Palazzo Bonaparte is hosting an exhibition of some of the Dutch painter’s finest work. It’s an opportunity to learn about the short yet turbulent and tormented life of one of the world’s greatest artists. Witness over 50 artworks on loan from the Kröller-Müller Museum, including Van Gogh’s iconic 1887 self-portrait.

Until March 26, 2023
Palazzo Bonaparte, Piazza Venezia 5, 00186 Rome

CRAZY: Madness in Contemporary Art

Chiostro del Bramante near Piazza Navona may have been designed by Donato Bramante in 1500, but its exterior now bursts with colour thanks to its latest exhibition, which is named after the title of a book by an Italian psychiatrist. 21 international artists including Carlos Amorales and Petah Coyne have transformed the gallery’s exterior and interior with 11 site-specific installations in a rebellious takeover to uncover the ‘madness’ of art. Don’t miss Ian Davenport’s ‘Poured Staircase’ – rainbow-hued paint that drips down a stone stairwell.

Until January 8, 2023
Chiostro del Bramante, 5 Arco della Pace, 00186 Rome

Domiziano Imperatore. Odio e amore

This is an opportunity to gain a fascinating insight into the life of Emperor Domitian, one of ancient Rome’s most controversial rulers. Through an impressive display of around 100 exhibits, from some of the most important international and Italian museums, learn why this influential figure was loved, hated and often misunderstood.

Until January 29, 2023
Capitoline Museum, Villa Caffarelli, Piazza del Campidoglio 1, 00186 Rome

Exterior facade Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome

Mario Merz, Balla, Carrà, de Chirico, de Pisis, Morandi, Savinio, Severini. Roma 1978. Mostre in Mostra

This show is named after the original exhibition hosted in 1978, at Rome’s Galleria dell’Oca. Considered back then as a daring juxtaposition of Neoavanguardia (the ‘New Vanguard’) and paintings by 20^th century Italian masters, it’s now considered a milestone in the history of contemporary art exhibitions. Decide for yourself whether this contentious reputation still stands today.

November 29 until February 26, 2023
Palazzo delle Esposizioni, Via Nazionale 194, 00184 Rome