Genoa Palazzo Ducale: Giorgio Griffa Exhibition. Painting the Invisible

Planning a visit to Genoa and interested in modern art with a historical twist? The Giorgio Griffa exhibition, titled Painting the Invisible, offers a rare chance to experience contemporary abstract art within the majestic walls of the Palazzo Ducale. This monographic exhibition showcases Griffa’s poetic, performative paintings created over more than 50 years, blending tradition and innovation in a way that’s both accessible and deeply thought-provoking.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is how Griffa’s work interacts with the ancient architecture of the Doge’s Palace, especially in the Doge’s Apartment, where large canvases and installations seem to converse with centuries of history. Plus, the chance to explore Griffa’s poetic gestures—signs and colors that evoke silence and the passage of time—can be a truly meditative experience. One possible consideration is that this exhibition leans heavily into abstract art, which might not appeal to visitors expecting more traditional or figurative works. Nevertheless, it’s well-suited for those curious about contemporary art’s dialogue with history and space, or anyone seeking a meaningful encounter outside the usual tourist spots.

If you appreciate art that makes you think while providing a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere, this tour will resonate strongly. It’s especially ideal for visitors who want to see something different, engage with Italy’s modern art scene, and enjoy a comfortable, curated environment.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to a major monographic exhibition of Giorgio Griffa, an influential figure in Italian abstract art.
• Art in context: The works are displayed within the historic Doge’s Apartment, creating a dialogue between contemporary art and Renaissance architecture.
• Poetic and performative style: Griffa’s gesture-based paintings evoke a sense of timelessness and silence.
• Includes the Doge’s Chapel: Adds a spiritual and historical dimension to your visit.
• Accessible and well-organized: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible cancellation options.
• An ideal pick for lovers of modern art, history buffs, or travelers seeking a quiet, meaningful cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Exhibition Experience

When you arrive at Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale, the first step is to head to the ticket office to exchange your voucher for an admission ticket. The process is straightforward, and you’ll find staff helpful in guiding you into the exhibition. Given that the entire tour lasts about a day with flexible starting times—depending on availability—you can choose a slot that fits your schedule comfortably.

The exhibition itself is housed in the Doge’s Apartment, a beautifully preserved space that adds a layer of historic resonance to Griffa’s work. We loved the way the large canvases and works on paper interact with the architecture—creating a dialogue across centuries. Griffa’s artwork is characterized by signs and colors applied in a manner that seems spontaneous yet highly intentional, inviting viewers into a meditative space. One reviewer noted that Griffa’s paintings “occupy space and time,” emphasizing how his gestures challenge traditional notions of representation.

The Artworks and Their Significance

Griffa’s primary signs and unprepared canvases are a hallmark of his style. His approach involves painting on bare, unprimed surfaces—making each stroke and sign feel immediate and universal. This method aligns with his desire to avoid the depiction of space, instead filling the canvas with signs that “pass with continuity and coherence,” as Griffa himself describes.

The exhibition includes more than just canvases; there are works on paper and installations, some paying tribute to poets like Montale, especially during the centenary of “Ossi di Seppia”. Griffa’s long career—marked by appearances in three Venice Biennials and over 200 solo exhibitions worldwide—shines through in the breadth of pieces on display, highlighting his evolution from the mid-60s to today.

Contextualizing Griffa’s Work

We found Griffa’s work to be surprisingly accessible considering its abstract nature. His focus on gesture and sign, rather than figurative forms, encourages a different kind of engagement—more about feeling and intuition than storytelling. His technique, which includes painting on the ground and allowing the signs to occupy space freely, gives each piece a performative quality that makes it unique.

Visitors often comment on the silence and tranquility of the space, which complements Griffa’s meditative approach. The exhibition’s curation—by Ilaria Bonacossa and Sébastien Delot—ensures that each piece is presented thoughtfully, fostering a sense of continuity and coherence.

Practical Details and Value

The ticket price includes entry to both the exhibition and the Doge’s Chapel, providing a comprehensive cultural experience in a single visit. The inclusion of the Saloni del Maggior e Minor Consiglio, when open, adds further historical context. The entire activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

While the tour lasts about a day, the flexible start times mean you can plan around your schedule. The booking process is simple—reserve now, pay later, and cancel with full refund up to 24 hours ahead. This flexibility makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary or unpredictable travel plans.

In terms of value, this experience offers a high-quality, focused art encounter in a historic setting. Given Griffa’s international stature—exhibited at Tate Modern and Centre Pompidou—seeing his work in Genoa provides a rare chance to connect with Italy’s contemporary scene in a context-rich environment.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Travelers Are Saying

Many visitors have expressed surprise at how Griffa’s abstract signs evoke a feeling of calm and timelessness. One reviewer appreciated that the exhibition “makes you think without forcing you,” while another noted that the dialogue between the artworks and the architecture “heightens the sense of quiet contemplation.” Some mentioned that the exhibition is best suited for those with an interest in the poetic side of abstract art or those seeking a peaceful cultural retreat.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This exhibition is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re curious about modern Italian art, enjoy spaces that foster reflection, or appreciate art that emphasizes gesture and sign, this experience will satisfy. Art lovers who enjoy seeing contemporary works in historic settings will find the dialogue between Griffa’s paintings and the Doge’s Palace especially compelling.

For those traveling with a penchant for history combined with modernity, or simply seeking a serene break from bustling streets, this tour offers a harmonious blend of both worlds. It’s a unique chance to connect with Italy’s evolving artistic landscape while surrounded by centuries of architectural splendor.

If you value authentic cultural encounters over commercialized tourism, this tour stands out as an enriching, thoughtful experience that’s well worth your time and a modest investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the exhibition and the Palazzo Ducale are wheelchair accessible, making it a comfortable experience for all visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The activity is designed to be completed within a day, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Does the ticket include access to other parts of the Ducal Palace?
Yes, the ticket covers entry to the exhibition, the Doge’s Chapel, and the Saloni del Maggior e Minor Consiglio when open.

Can I cancel my booking?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which helps keep your travel plans flexible.

What should I expect at the exhibition?
Expect large canvases, works on paper, and installations that highlight Griffa’s poetic, gesture-based abstract art, all set within a historic environment that enhances your appreciation of his work.

This Giorgio Griffa exhibition at Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale offers a unique blend of art, history, and tranquility, making it a meaningful addition to any cultural itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for an insightful way to experience Genoa beyond its streets and port, this tour provides a quiet, contemplative, and deeply authentic encounter.

You can check availability for your dates here: