The exhibition
Among the best photography exhibitions in Rome, Magic Lanterns. Photographs from the Valerio De Paolis Collection stands out as a major cultural event in Rome, dedicated to lovers of contemporary art and international photography. It will be on display at the Museo Carlo Bilotti until September 6, 2026.
For the first time, a selection of more than one hundred photographs from one of Italy’s most important private collections is presented to the public. The exhibition offers a fascinating visual journey through portraits, urban landscapes, and experimental works, created by some of the most influential photographers of the 20th century and contemporary art scene.
The exhibition’s title refers to the magic lantern, an early image projection device and precursor to both photography and cinema. Like those first visual projections, the exhibition invites visitors on an emotional journey through powerful images that evoke memories, tell stories, and offer new perspectives on the modern world.
The collection reflects the personal and professional journey of Valerio De Paolis, a key figure in the Italian film industry and a passionate art collector. In this context, photography becomes a powerful medium for visual exploration, memory, and interpretation, making this exhibition one of the must-see art exhibitions in Rome.
One of the most interesting art exhibitions in Rome in 2026, the show unfolds across three main thematic sections:
- An Idea of Woman – A reflection on the representation of the female body through the perspectives of renowned international photographers, exploring identity, expression, and artistic vision.
- An Idea of Space – A section dedicated to urban space and contemporary landscapes, featuring works by Luigi Ghirri, one of the most important Italian photographers of the 20th century.
- The Space of Art – A dialogue between art and photography, exploring installations, avant-garde movements, and experimental visual languages that highlight the evolution of contemporary photography.
The exhibition features works by some of the world’s most celebrated photographers, including Nobuyoshi Araki, Letizia Battaglia, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Luigi Ghirri, Man Ray, Cindy Sherman, Edward Weston, and many other leading figures of international photography. The experience is further enriched by a special program of film screenings organized in collaboration with the Casa del Cinema, making it one of the most engaging cultural events in Rome for art and photography lovers.
Discover one of the most fascinating contemporary art exhibitions in Rome in 2026 and enjoy your stay at 47 Boutique Hotel.
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