In the Light of Florence
Reviving Florence’s Artistic Legacy with Pneuma Art Foundation
Pneuma Art Foundation proudly presented our inaugural exhibition, In the Light of Florence, a celebration of living artists inspired by the classical tradition. The event, held from September 27-29, 2024, in Florence, Italy, gathered a dynamic community of living artists who—like the great masters before them—draw from Florence’s rich artistic heritage. Over the course of just three days, the exhibition welcomed nearly 4,000 visitors, with our Community Night on Friday attracting over 450 attendees and our children's event drawing more than 30 local kids.
Centuries ago, artists such as Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, and Raphael congregated in Florence under the patronage of families like the Medici, creating some of the most beautiful and enduring works of art in history. Their legacy, supported by those who understood art’s power to elevate society, shaped the spirit and essence of the Renaissance.
At Pneuma Art Foundation, we are dedicated to reigniting this spirit. Our mission is to reintroduce the tradition of workshops and master artisans by building a supportive community for today’s artists. This vision came to life in our recent exhibition, where more than 30 artists showcased works that celebrate the beauty, craftsmanship, and profound depth of the classical tradition. Their paintings, etchings, and sculptures stand as a testament to the influence of Florence’s artistic past and its ongoing inspiration for future generations.
A highlight of the event was the Vernissage on September 28, 2024, which brought together art collectors, curators, and patrons from around the world. The exhibition was made possible with the generous support of sponsors such as Villa il Pozzo, La Spa, and Compagnia Colonna, alongside contributions from local businesses. We were further honored by the recognition of Florentine magazine, which featured the exhibition as one of the “Best Events of the Summer,” shining a spotlight on the remarkable works of these talented artists.
Vernissage performance by aerial acrobats at Compagnia Colonna in Firenze, Italia
Looking Ahead: Building the Future of Pneuma Art Foundation
While this exhibition was a major milestone, it is only the beginning of our journey. We are working towards establishing a permanent home for the foundation in Florence, where we plan to create affordable studio spaces for artists. Our vision is to nurture an environment of creativity, collaboration, and learning—reminiscent of the workshops from the Renaissance era. We are currently seeking partners who share this vision and can assist us in securing a dedicated space for both artist studios and the foundation's headquarters in Florence.
A young boy admires two commissioned works by Pneuma Art Foundation of St John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Ávila. Artist: Jannik.
In addition, we are developing a Patrons’ Program to support the foundation and the artists we serve. Through cultivating a community of patrons, we aim to provide the next generation of artists with the resources they need to create works that will inspire, just as the Renaissance masters have for centuries.
We are deeply excited about the journey ahead and warmly invite you to join us in realizing this vision. With your support, we can continue to foster artists and ensure Florence’s artistic legacy lives on for future generations.
