Rome, Italy – A vibrant tribute to the iconic fashion designer Valentino Garavani is currently on display at the Morgana Lengfeld Show Lab in Rome. The collective exhibition, titled “ROSSO V,” celebrates the enduring legacy of Valentino and his signature “rosso Valentino” – a shade of red that has become synonymous with elegance and passion in the world of international fashion. The show, which opened on March 14, 2026, features the work of 27 contemporary artists exploring the multifaceted symbolism of the color red.
The exhibition isn’t simply a retrospective of Valentino’s work, but rather a dynamic conversation *about* the color that defines so much of his aesthetic. Curated by A-Wibaa, an artist and curator, “ROSSO V” brings together a diverse group of artists working across various mediums – painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed techniques – to examine the emotional, cultural, and symbolic weight of red. The artists, including Rosanna Amatulli, Sabrina Baldacchini, Giuseppe Bevilacqua, and Virginia Saracino, were each challenged to interpret the color through their unique artistic lenses.
A Spectrum of Red: Exploring Passion, Tension, and Identity
The choice of red as the central theme is deliberate. As the exhibition materials note, red is a “universal symbol of passion, elegance and timeless visual identity.” “ROSSO V” delves into the many layers of this powerful hue, moving beyond simple associations with romance and vitality to explore its darker, more complex connotations. The exhibition description highlights the exploration of red’s nuances, from “passion to tension, from elegance to vital force, to its most intimate and identity dimension.” This multifaceted approach ensures the exhibition isn’t merely a celebration of a color, but a thoughtful investigation into its cultural significance.
Virginia Saracino, one of the featured artists, contributes to this exploration with her unique artistic perspective. While specific details about Saracino’s contribution aren’t readily available, her inclusion in the exhibition underscores the curator’s commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic interpretations of the central theme. The exhibition’s strength lies in its collective nature, allowing viewers to experience the color red through a multitude of voices and styles.
Artaporter and the Morgana Lengfeld Show Lab: Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue
The exhibition is organized by Artaporter, an international platform dedicated to promoting contemporary art and fostering connections between artists, curators, and exhibition spaces. Artaporter’s mission is to support dialogue between creative disciplines and facilitate the dissemination of new artistic research within the contemporary art landscape. This commitment to fostering artistic exchange is evident in the diverse range of artists selected for “ROSSO V.”
The Morgana Lengfeld Show Lab, the exhibition’s venue, is itself a unique space. Described as an exhibition space and creative laboratory, it hosts experimental projects where art, fashion, and visual research converge. The lab’s interdisciplinary focus aligns perfectly with the spirit of “ROSSO V,” creating a setting where the boundaries between artistic disciplines are blurred and new forms of creative expression can flourish. The space is known for promoting “contaminations between artistic languages and new modes of dialogue between creativity and visual culture.”
The Artists of “ROSSO V”
The exhibition features a substantial roster of contemporary artists, each bringing their individual style and perspective to the exploration of red. Beyond those already mentioned, the exhibiting artists include: Sabrina Baldacchini, Giuseppe Bevilacqua, Paola Bignardi, Danica Bozzolan, Cristina Candiracci, Sara Canonico, Carlo Alvise Crispolti, Emanuela Del Zompo, Gianfranco Fiore, Francesca Gioggi, Teo Iaia, Viviana Inselvini, Irene Lak, Angela Malinconico, Margherita Marzari, Katia Angela Masella, Sara Napoleone, Lara Nex Oliva, Francesca Patera, Katja Richter, Adriano Romani, Simona Treccosti, Federica Virgil, and Ilaria Valenzi. The breadth of this list demonstrates the curator’s intention to present a comprehensive and multifaceted exploration of the theme.
Valentino Garavani’s Enduring Influence
The exhibition’s focus on Valentino Garavani is a testament to his lasting impact on the world of fashion. Valentino, known simply as Valentino, established his eponymous fashion house in 1960 and quickly became renowned for his exquisite craftsmanship, dramatic designs, and, of course, his signature shade of red. The “rosso Valentino” became a symbol of the brand’s identity and a coveted color among fashion enthusiasts worldwide. The exhibition acknowledges this enduring influence, positioning the color red not just as an artistic element, but as a cultural icon shaped by Valentino’s vision.
While Valentino Garavani retired from his role as creative director of the Valentino fashion house in 2008, his legacy continues to inspire designers and artists alike. “ROSSO V” serves as a reminder of his profound contribution to the world of fashion and the enduring power of a single, perfectly chosen color. The exhibition provides a platform for contemporary artists to engage with this legacy, reinterpreting and reimagining the symbolism of “rosso Valentino” for a new generation.
The exhibition is a compelling exploration of color, creativity, and the enduring influence of a fashion icon. “ROSSO V” offers visitors a chance to experience the power of red through the eyes of 27 talented artists, all while paying homage to the legendary Valentino Garavani and his unforgettable contribution to the world of style.
Visitors interested in experiencing “ROSSO V” can find it at the Morgana Lengfeld Show Lab in Rome. Further details about the exhibition, including opening hours and potential related events, are expected to be available on the Artaporter website and through local cultural listings as the exhibition continues its run.