Mimmo Rotella 1945-2005: major retrospective at Palazzo Ducale, Genoa

Mimmo Rotella 1945-2005: a comprehensive retrospective at Palazzo Ducale

Venue: Palazzo Ducale, Sottoporticato - Genoa. Dates: from 24 April to 13 September 2026.

Palazzo Ducale presents a wide-ranging exhibition dedicated to Mimmo Rotella, tracing more than sixty years of his artistic research. Curated by Alberto Fiz and organized in collaboration with the Mimmo Rotella Foundation, the show gathers over 100 works from museums, foundations and public and private collections.

The exhibition is arranged both chronologically and thematically to highlight Rotella's experimental techniques: from early epistaltism and poster tearings to the invention of décollage, as well as typographic works (artypos) and photographic transfers onto canvas.

Highlights

• More than 100 works illustrating key moments of Rotella's career (1945-2005).
• Sections devoted to works shown at the 1964 Venice Biennale and projects reflecting on media coverage of political violence (Years of Lead).
• Archival material including original photographs, epistaltic poems and video contributions that contextualize the works.
• Important loans from national and international institutions enrich the exhibition.

The show investigates the relationship between image, communication and chance: many works originate from tearing and removal processes that introduce unpredictability and enhance the expressive power of fragments. The layout showcases both technical experimentation and Rotella's critical engagement with media imagery.

Visitor information

• Dates: 24 April - 13 September 2026
• Location: Palazzo Ducale, Sottoporticato, Genoa
• Works on display: over 100 paintings, torn posters, photographic transfers and archival documents
• Curator: Alberto Fiz

The retrospective is recommended for contemporary art enthusiasts, students and anyone interested in the intersections between artistic practice and 20th-century visual culture. Check Palazzo Ducale's official channels for opening hours, tickets and guided visits.