Chianciano Biennale

The Chianciano Biennale: Contemporary Art Across Tuscany

In the heart of the Val di Chiana, the town of Chianciano Terme (Siena Province, Tuscany) hosts one of the most international contemporary art events on the Italian scene. The Chianciano Biennale was founded in 2009 by the Chianciano Art Museum with the vision of creating a contemporary art hub outside established norms, capable of giving talented living artists exposure without filters or discrimination. Since then, the event has been held biennially, earning a solid reputation among collectors, curators, and enthusiasts worldwide.

An Open-Air Museum Among Medieval Streets

What makes this Biennale unique is its decentralized nature: artworks are not confined to a single venue but are distributed between the Chianciano Terme Art Museum on Viale della Libertà and thirteen galleries and exhibition spaces scattered throughout the picturesque historic center. Strolling through the village during the event means wandering from one gallery to the next, discovering paintings, sculptures, photographs, installations, and digital works along a path that weaves art into the urban fabric. Piazza Matteotti traditionally serves as the hub for the opening ceremony.

Artists from Around the World

Selection takes place through an international open call open to artists from every country. Each edition gathers several hundred participants; the 2024 edition featured over 190 artists from about 50 nations. Represented disciplines range from traditional painting and sculpture to digital art, photography, installations, and immersive experiences, including forays into virtual reality and interactive works.

Awards and Recognition

The Biennale awards several prizes to the most deserving works, including the Best Overall Work and category-specific awards (painting, sculpture or installation, works on paper, digital or photographic work). Award-winning artists also receive automatic entry into the London Art Biennale, the sister event organized in London by the Gagliardi Gallery, a long-standing partner of the exhibition.

A Landmark Event for Chianciano and Tuscany

Beyond its artistic value, the Biennale acts as a catalyst for the region: it brings a cosmopolitan audience to the famous spa town of Chianciano Terme and enlivens the historic center for two weeks in summer. The event enjoys the support of the municipal administration and is a key feature of the rich cultural calendar of the Province of Siena and Tuscany.