October 02, 2018 - Siena and surroundings, Central Tuscany, Florence and surroundings, Chianti, South of siena, Museums, Val d'Orcia and Amiata
Tuscan guidebooks wax poetically about the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, but if the centuries begin to weigh heavy on you and you yearn for something a bit more contemporary, know that Tuscany has a lot to offer as regards modern art - sometimes in the most unexpected places.
Original and interesting modern art exhibitions can be seen in many corners of Tuscany, both indoors and out in the open. Here are some to consider:
Museums
Luigi Pecci Centre for Contemporary Art of Prato - This museum, whose futuristic extension by Maurice Nio opened in 2016, was the first museum built in Italy (1988) to house the works of and promote modern artists. With over 1,000 works by more than 300 artists, it features the visual arts as well as cinema, music, theatre, dance, design, fashion and architecture.
Galleria Continua in San Gimignano - In a small medieval town, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this museum represents more recent decades and has become very important contemporary art scene at an international level.
Lucca Center of Contemporary Art (Lu.C.C.A.) - A few steps from the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro in the historical centre of Lucca, the Palazzo Buccella hosts a variety of changing exhibitions.
Outdoor exhibition spaces
Daniel Spoerri Sculpture Garden - Located in Seggiano between Monte Amiata and Montalcino, this 16 hectare sculpture garden encourages visitors to wander the park's grounds and discover the over 110 works by 55 different artists, including the Swiss sculptor himself. Tucked away within the trees or adorning a hillside the pieces surprise and often delight.
Chianti Sculpture Park - The integration of art and nature is the the theme of sculptures and installations throughout the park. Music has entered the park as well, for during July and August Tuesday evening concerts are held in the park's Amphitheatre.
Villa Fattoria di Celle - An open space of 45 acres as well as historical buildings are the home to 80 works of the Gori collection. As this is a private home in Santomato, about 40 km from Florence, visits can be arranged by appointment only from May to September.
Tarot Garden of Niki di Saint Phalle - Off the southern coast of Tuscany the 'Giardino dei Tarocchi' is a child and adult wonderland of mirrors, colorful ceramics and gigantic tarot deck figures, one in which the artist lived during the Garden's construction.
Rose Garden overlooking Florence - With a sweeping view of Florence, this quiet garden close to Piazzale Michelangelo has both seasonal roses and a permanent exhibit of 12 sculptures by the Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon.
