Virtue and Grace – Exhibition at Galleria BPER Modena

Virtue and Grace: the exhibition at Galleria BPER Modena

Galleria BPER in Modena hosts Virtue and Grace, an exhibition examining representations of women in 17th-century painting. The show is structured in five thematic sections that explore devotion, myth, power, emotion and allegory, offering a renewed reading of Baroque masterpieces.

The project aims to activate the collection: artworks are presented alongside educational resources, guided programmes and initiatives designed to engage diverse audiences and link historic art to contemporary conversations.

Highlights of the exhibition

• Saints, virgins and martyrs: portrayals that blend devotional intensity with emotional impact.
• Dangerous passions: mythological and biblical episodes where feminine beauty drives transformation and narrative tension.
• Seductresses and heroines: ambivalent figures such as Judith and Lucretia, embodying justice, revenge and self-determination.
• The darts of love: depictions of love teetering between passion and redemption, referencing major Baroque literary themes.
• Allegory: the female figure as embodiment of abstract concepts and moral virtues.

Accessibility and further resources

To widen access, the exhibition includes two tactile engravings made with the P.I.A.F. (Minolta) technique, reproducing selected works for visitors with visual impairments. An audio-guide accessible via QR code has also been produced in collaboration with the Radio FSC-Unimore student group.

A catalogue published by Sagep, edited by the curators, is available at the exhibition for a minimum contribution starting from €8; proceeds support Fondazione Vita Indipendente Onlus in Modena, funding projects to improve independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.

Public programme and guided visits

The public programme enriches the exhibition with guided tours, school workshops and thematic talks. Notable events include:

• A cultural route in collaboration with the Civic Museum of Modena and the curator, linking the shows Virtue and Grace and Consonanze (free event; reservation recommended).
• An ARTalk on art and wellbeing presenting research on how museum experiences can reduce anxiety and stress, featuring contributions from researchers and curators.

Practical information

The exhibition takes place at the Modena venue of La Galleria BPER. For schedules, guided-visit bookings and details about educational activities or accessibility services, please check the gallery’s official channels or contact the venue directly.