Premio Vasto

The Premio Vasto d'Arte Contemporanea

The Premio Vasto d'Arte Contemporanea is a historic cultural event in the city of Vasto, located in the province of Chieti, in the heart of the Adriatic Abruzzo region. Founded in 1959, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious contemporary art awards in the region. For over half a century, it has defined the Vasto summer, transforming the spaces of Palazzo d'Avalos into a grand showcase for Italian artistic research.

Palazzo d'Avalos and the Neapolitan Gardens

The exhibition is held in the gallery halls of the Civic Museums of Palazzo d'Avalos and the evocative Neapolitan Gardens, which overlook the Gulf of Vasto. The 16th-century palace, once the residence of the d'Avalos family, now houses the art gallery, the archaeological museum, and the municipal contemporary art collection—an ideal setting for fostering a dialogue between historical heritage and the works of invited artists.

A theme for every edition

Each edition of the Premio is built around a critical theme curated by the artistic direction, which has been led in recent years by Antonio Zimarino. The exhibitions bring together painters, sculptors, photographers, and installation artists, all invited to engage with the proposed central theme. The exhibition path is accompanied by catalogs, meetings, and moments of critical reflection, making the Premio an event followed not only by the local public but also by collectors, critics, and contemporary art enthusiasts.

A cultural tradition for Vasto

With an exhibition period spanning from mid-summer through autumn, the Premio Vasto has become an integral part of the cultural identity of Vasto and the tourism offering of the Costa dei Trabocchi. Free admission and the long duration of the exhibitions allow residents and visitors to discover the works at their own pace, often combining the visit with an exploration of the historic center and the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.