Mantua Women's Photography Biennial

A one-of-a-kind review

The Women's Photography Biennial (BFF) was founded in 2020 in Mantua and is the first review in Italy built entirely around the perspective of female photographers. Promoted by the Associazione La Papessa APS with the support of the Municipality of Mantua, it has quickly gained a prominent place in the Italian cultural landscape, bringing renowned and emerging Italian and international female artists to the Lombard capital.

The 2026 theme: Liminal

The fourth edition, scheduled from March 6 to 29, 2026, revolves around the concept of "Liminal", the threshold. It is that uncertain and suspended transitional space, a condition of profound transition where what was valid until a moment before may suddenly no longer be. A common thread that the artists explore through diverse languages and geographies, from reportage to conceptual work.

Exhibitions in the city's palaces

The heart of the Biennial is the photographic exhibitions, set up in some of the most evocative locations in the historic center of Mantua: the Casa di Rigoletto, the Casa del Mantegna, Galleria Disegno, Spazio Arrivabene2, and Casa del Pittore. These are complemented by workshops, conferences, portfolio reviews, and evening screenings, making the BFF not just an exhibition but a true moment of discussion and training.

Mantua, capital of culture

The choice of Mantua is no coincidence: a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Renaissance capital of the Gonzaga family, it has for years carved out a leading role among Italian cultural festivals, from Festivaletteratura to Trame Sonore. The Women's Photography Biennial adds a contemporary and necessary voice to this identity, focusing on female artists who are too often on the margins of official photographic narratives.