Exhibitions to see in Bologna during the winter
Updated on 23 February 2026 From Federico Farinelli
Come to Bologna and enjoy an art exhibition during the winter season: temporary exhibitions dedicated to great artists of the past, as well as contemporary and avant-garde works.
Here is a selection of exhibitions to visit during winter 2026
Top exhibitions
Where: Museo Civico Archeologico - V. dell'Archiginnasio 2
When: November 20, 2025 - April 06, 2026
The most anticipated is likely Graphic Japan, the first major Italian exhibition exploring the evolution of Japanese graphics, from ukiyo-e prints of the Edo period to contemporary manga and posters. Curated by Rossella Menegazzo and Eleonora Lanza, the exhibition features over 200 works, including woodblock prints, books, and posters, demonstrating how Japanese art has maintained its visual identity while constantly reinventing itself.
The exhibition layout is divided into four thematic sections (Nature, Figures, Sign, Contemporary Japonisme), tracing a chronological and thematic journey that reveals the skill of Japanese graphics in blending innovation and tradition. The works come from prominent Italian and Japanese institutions, such as the "Edoardo Chiossone" Museum of Oriental Art in Genoa and the Dai Nippon Foundation.
Michelangelo Pistoletto | From Cittadellarte toStatodellarte
Where: Palazzo Boncompagni, Via del Monte 8
When: February 03, 2026 - June 03, 2026
This exhibition brings to Bologna the work of one of the most celebrated masters of contemporary art, Michelangelo Pistoletto. The exhibition offers a unique journey within the historical setting of Palazzo Boncompagni, focusing on the artistic and social evolution of the "Cittadellarte" concept. It is an exclusive opportunity to delve deeper into the thought of an artist who has redefined the boundaries between art and life.
The peculiarity of this event lies in the way it is experienced: the exhibition can be visited exclusively through guided tours. Furthermore, mandatory booking is required for all visitors. Reservations can be made directly through the official channels of the Palace.
Mattia Moreni. The Bologna retrospective,1965
Where: MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna, Via Don Giovanni Minzoni 14
When: January 30, 2026 - May 31, 2026
MAMbo celebrates Mattia Moreni with an important retrospective exhibition that retraces a crucial moment of his artistic production linked to the city. The exhibition allows visitors to immerse themselves in the artist's expressive and tactile language, which is fundamental to understanding the evolution of post-war Italian art. Tickets can be purchased both at the museum ticket office and online.
Identity, the plural self - do ut do2026
Where: Palazzo Pepoli - Museum of the History of Bologna, Via Castiglione 10
When: February 04, 2026 - April 06, 2026
The exhibition path arrives at Palazzo Pepoli with the project "Identity, the plural self", part of the do ut do 2026 initiative. This exhibition explores the facets of the concept of collective and individual identity through works that stimulate reflection on the self and the relationship with others. Admission for visitors is free
More than this - Groupexhibition
Where: Pinacoteca di Bologna - Sala Incamminati - Via delle Belle Arti 56
When: January 31, 2026 - April 05, 2026
Inside the suggestive Sala Incamminati of the National Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale), the group exhibition "More than this" invites visitors to an artistic exploration that goes beyond the surface of the visible. The exhibition fits perfectly into the dialogue between the historical art housed in the museum and new contemporary expressions, offering a stimulating point of view on current creativity. Admission to this specific section of the Pinacoteca is free for all visitors.
Located in the heart of the university district, the exhibition is easily accessible on foot and represents an excellent opportunity to discover the treasures of the Pinacoteca through a modern and dynamic lens.
Etel Adnan and Giorgio Morandi |Vibrations
Where: Museo Morandi, Via Don Giovanni Minzoni 14
When: January 21, 2026 - May 03, 2026
"Vibrations" creates a dialogue between the work of Giorgio Morandi and that of the Lebanese-American artist Etel Adnan, building a visual and spiritual bridge between their artistic sensibilities. Hosted within the spaces dedicated to the Bolognese master, the exhibition explores how color and form can convey profound and silent essences.
Ruth Orkin | PalazzoPallavicini
Where: Palazzo Pallavicini, Via S. Felice 24
When: March 05, 2026 - July 19, 2026
The baroque rooms of Palazzo Pallavicini host the photographic work of Ruth Orkin, offering a profound and iconic look at 20th-century society. The exhibition celebrates the sensitive eye of one of the most influential photographers of her era, known for her ability to capture moments of daily life with extraordinary intensity. Entrance tickets can be purchased directly at the Palace ticket office.
Several extraordinary openings are scheduled for the spring holidays, such as Easter, Easter Monday, and April 25th, to allow tourists and residents to enjoy the exhibition during long weekends.
Where: Palazzo Bentivoglio, Via del Borgo di S. Pietro 1
When: January 30, 2026 - April 26, 2026
Palazzo Bentivoglio presents the work of Michael E. Smith in an exhibition that challenges the perception of historical spaces through minimalist and unsettling artistic interventions. Smith's approach transforms common objects into presences charged with tension, creating a unique dialogue with the surrounding architecture. Admission to this exhibition is completely free.
To check specific opening hours, the organization invites visitors to refer to the Palace's official website. The exhibition represents one of the most significant stops for those wishing to explore the most radical trends in international contemporary art present in the city this winter.
Concetto Pozzati. From and forMorandi
Where: Casa Morandi, via Fondazza 36
When: January 17, 2026 - March 15, 2026
This exhibition pays tribute to the intellectual and artistic bond between Concetto Pozzati and Giorgio Morandi, set right in the house that was home to the master of still lifes. Through a selection of targeted works, the project explores how Morandi's legacy has been reworked and interpreted by one of the leading figures of contemporary Bolognese art. Admission is free, but online reservation is mandatory.
As it is an intimate museum space, the visit offers a quiet and evocative experience. Opening hours are limited to the weekend, with openings on Saturday from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and on Sunday in two time slots, morning and afternoon.
Bartolomeo Cesi (1556-1629). Painting of Silence
Where: Museo Civico Medievale, Via Manzoni 4
When: November 22, 2025 - April 6, 2026
Dedicated to one of the leading figures of Bolognese painting between the 16th and 17th centuries, this exhibition analyzes the rigorous and "silent" art of Bartolomeo Cesi in the era of the Carracci. The exhibition represents an unmissable opportunity to rediscover the value of an artist fundamental to both local and national art history.
I saw them - The drawings of Stefano Ricci
Where: Cinema Modernissimo, Piazza Re Enzo
When: February 04, 2026 - April 19, 2026
The atmospheric space of Cinema Modernissimo hosts Stefano Ricci's drawings in an exhibition with the evocative title "I saw them" (Li ho visti). Ricci's work, characterized by a powerful and imaginative style, finds an ideal setting in this underground cultural hub that blends cinema and visual arts. Tickets are available online or at the Cineteca Bookshop in Piazza Re Enzo.
Ineffable Lea. Lea Colliva(1901-1975)
Where: Museo Ottocento Bologna, Piazza S. Michele 4C
When: October 31, 2025 - March 16, 2026
Fifty years after her passing, Bologna pays tribute to Lea Colliva with an exhibition that rediscovers her "ineffable" artistic personality. Hosted at the Museo Ottocento, the exhibition explores the work of a painter who navigated the twentieth century with a unique and independent style. Tickets for the visit can be purchased through the museum's online platform.
The exhibition is open to the public every day with continuous hours from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, ensuring maximum flexibility for tourists visiting the city during the week. For any additional information or to contact the museum, a dedicated email address is available.
Other exhibitions around the city
Edited by
Passionate amateur cyclist, I live by sports and breathing nature. As soon as I have vacations, I travel and explore, taking an interest in the history and food (and wine) of the places I visit. I have been writing for bolognawelcome.com since 2018.
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