M9 Contemporaneo in Mestre: the Museo del ’900 launches a platform for

M9 Contemporaneo: a new platform for contemporary arts

The M9 – Museo del ’900 in Mestre introduces M9 Contemporaneo, a curatorial identity designed to host exhibitions and initiatives that connect twentieth-century memory with current cultural issues.

This initiative functions as a distributed platform within the museum, welcoming projects that investigate the present through varied artistic languages while preserving ties to the institution’s historical focus.

The two opening programs

The inaugural phase runs from 13 March to 12 April 2026 and includes two complementary exhibitions staged in different museum areas:

• Risonanze invisibili – a solo show by Michelangelo Penso, curated by Leo Lecci and produced with Galleria Alberta Pane. Installed in the M9 Orizzonti hall (first floor), it features three site-specific works that translate scientific research into sensory installations using light, sound and sculptural materials.
• La serena inquietudine del territorio (Into the Land) – a project originating from a laboratory initiated by Giovanni Cecchinato, presented in the M9 Passaggi space (second floor). The exhibition gathers photographic works that examine changes in the Veneto landscape, combining documentary approaches (New Topographics) with authorial, interpretative perspectives. Produced with the patronage of the Order of Architects of Venice and in collaboration with architect Alessandro Angeli.

Highlights of Penso’s installations

• Cronòtopo: an installation inspired by the concept of space-time, built with modular elements that react to visitors’ presence by triggering lights and sounds.
• Magnetic Nanoparticles Genesis: developed with the Italian Institute of Technology, this work interprets research on magnetic nanoparticles through a multisensory experience.
• Sirtuine: a large sculptural structure evoking DNA repair processes, translating cellular mechanisms into a macroscopic visual environment.

Why visit

M9 Contemporaneo creates intersections between art and science, documentary gaze and visual interpretation, addressing topics from landscape transformation to biological and technological research. The program combines analytical and evocative approaches tailored to diverse audiences.

Practical information

• Exhibition period (opening): 13 March – 12 April 2026.
• Venue: M9 – Museo del ’900, Venice Mestre (M9 Orizzonti and M9 Passaggi rooms).
• Curators and partners: Leo Lecci; Galleria Alberta Pane; Italian Institute of Technology; Into the Land; Order of Architects of Venice; Alessandro Angeli.

For planning a visit, check the museum’s official channels for opening hours, guided tours and visitor services, or contact the ticket office for updated information.