I must learn to crochet. This is the message I took from Venus: Valentino Garavani through the eyes of Joana Vasconcelos. Joana Vasconcelos is a Portuguese artist who bridges art, fashion and craft.
This is what you see as you walk up the stairs to the exhibition. I remember this line from the movie about Valentino. It sounded wonderful when he said it in his delicious Italian accent.
Joana Vasconcelos installations are featured alongside Valentino’s stunning designs.
This is the entrance…
a Valentino dress.
A crochet sculpture by Joana…
Two crochet covered sculptures…
Closer.
The first room has a massive sculpture inspired by eight of Valentino’s dresses. It was created by more than 200 contributors.
Moving on…
Take a closer look at the sculpture. I will never look at my iron the same way again. One of them actually had steam coming out of it.
Take a closer look at the shoe sculptures.
I have one of those saucepans at home!
Looking up.
The final room.
The exhibition is on until 31st May 2026 in Piazza Mignanelli 23, near the Spanish Steps, just steps from the Valentino shop.
It looks wonderful. You have such a lovely life Debra, your posts are so interesting.
By: Babsiom on March 22, 2026
at 8:30 pm
I am happy to be in Rome right now to see this. It is a small, but delightful exhibition.
By: Debra Kolkka on March 23, 2026
at 5:37 am
Wow! how incredible I loved the saucepan shoes – I can crochet 🧶 but can’t even imagine the skill needed for this exhibition – what an exhibition – cheers
By: Helen close on March 22, 2026
at 9:34 pm
I can see a saucepan sculpture happening in your kitchen soon.
By: Debra Kolkka on March 23, 2026
at 5:38 am
Absolutely superb. Thanks for the brilliant photos Deb.
By: Camillus Davall on March 22, 2026
at 9:38 pm
It is a wonderful exhibition, the highlight of my Rome visit.
By: Debra Kolkka on March 23, 2026
at 5:38 am
Breathtaking! The displays are above and beyond the craft of crocheting. Love Valentino’s designs. So lucky to be there Debi.
Great photography…
By: Christine on March 23, 2026
at 1:56 am
I am very lucky to be here for the exhibition. Rome is ridiculously crowded right now. This was a lovely, quiet place to be.
By: Debra Kolkka on March 23, 2026
at 5:40 am
WOW!!
By: Jenny on March 23, 2026
at 2:50 am
Yes!
By: Debra Kolkka on March 23, 2026
at 5:40 am
What a superb post – breathtaking, surreal! Wonderful you can share it with us. The irons! The pots!! The fibre creations – over the top….in a beautiful way!! Lucky you – and happy us! Grazie!
By: Catherine Rowley on March 23, 2026
at 9:42 pm
I was lucky to be in Rome for this. It was a fun exhibition.
By: Debra Kolkka on March 24, 2026
at 6:31 am