LAVINIA in Villa Borghese: reopens the Loggia dei Vini to the public

The contemporary art project LAVINIA, curated by Salvatore Lacagnina was designed to engage with the Loggia’s setting and all phases of its restoration.

The name LAVINIA pays homage to Lavinia Fontana, one of the first female artists to be recognized by the canons of art history, whose work became part of the Borghese collection in the early 16th century.   The project will showcase site-specific works by artists Ross Birrell & David Harding, Monika Sosnowska, Enzo Cucchi, Gianni Politi, Piero Golia, and Virginia Overton until January 26th, 2025.

“We believe in the value of culture and are dedicated to promoting it globally. It’s a great honor to contribute to the restoration within Villa Borghese, one of the world’s most beautiful parks. I believe our role in society extends beyond the contruction of infrastructure; we aspire to champion a new, more sustainable development model that fosters collective well-being. LAVINIA embodies our commitment to providing artists the freedom to engage with the Loggia dei Vini,” stated Enrico Ghella, President and CEO.

LAVINIA aspires to silently permeate the everyday, addressing those who stroll in the park, straying away from any form of «auctoritas». It questions and tests the boundaries of public art and tradition, the relationship between art and architecture, unlocking the power of storytelling.  

In this atmospheric venue, historically a cool, shaded retreat for gatherings, fine wines and sorbets were served, echoing that each LAVINIA inauguration will be paired with a unique ice cream flavor crafted for the occasion. The first flavor will be “orange and lemon verbena.”

The project, is realized by Ghella and promoted by Roma Capitale, Assessorato della Cultura, and Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali, in collaboration with Zètema Progetto Cultura.