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Theme of the XV Florence Biennale: “The Sublime Essence of Light and Darkness: Concepts of Dualism and Unity in Contemporary Art and Design”

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The XV Florence Biennale, taking place at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence from 18 to 26 October 2025, is dedicated to the primordial, eternal union between light and darkness, which has always been at the centre of artistic, as well as scientific, philosophical and literary research. Metaphor of the divine, good, knowledge, and life, light is often contrasted, especially in Western culture, with darkness, which has been perceived as a symbol of evil, unknown, and death. Light, however, cannot be understood or perceived without darkness itself. Behind multiplicity, unity always hides. The theme therefore leads to a reflection on the need to understand what seems opposite to us and which is instead part of a unitary system: our human race, our planet, our universe.

Across 11,000 square metres, over 550 artists and designers from more than 85 countries and 5 continents, will present more than 1,500 artworks directly to cultural operators and the public. Among the most eagerly awaited guests are two leading figures in contemporary creativity: Tim Burton, American director and artist, and Patricia Urquiola, architect, designer and art director of Cassina. For the occasion, Tim Burton will present his new solo exhibition, “Tim Burton: Light and Darkness”, curated by the artist himself in collaboration with the Florence Biennale. Tim Burton will receive the ‘Lorenzo il Magnifico’ Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the visual arts. On the other hand, Patricia Urquiola – receives the “Leonardo da Vinci” International Lifetime Achievement Award (Design), presents her new exhibition “Transitions”, an installation that reflects the essence of her design method.

The Biennale's calendar of events promises to be rich and varied, with a wide range of collateral events. The 15th Florence Biennale will also feature ‘Design Days’ curated by Gabriele Goretti, a two-day event dedicated to the dialogue between creativity and manufacturing, with the participation of nationally and internationally renowned designers who have collaborated with companies that symbolise Italian manufacturing excellence.

All the works in the exhibition compete for the assignment of the "Lorenzo il Magnifico" International Award for Art in the categories of Ceramic Art, Drawing, Calligraphy and Printmaking, Installation Art, Jewellery Art, Mixed Media, New Media Art, Painting, Performance Art, Photography, Sculpture, Textile & Fiber Art, Video Art and the "Leonardo da Vinci" International Award for Design in the categories of Architecture and Town Design, Industrial and Product Design, Fashion and Jewellery Design, Interior Design, Communication and Graphic Design, Technology and Game Design. The International Jury evaluates the works of artists and designers during the days of the exhibition and confers the awards at the Awards Ceremony (Sunday 26 October 2025).