By Chiara Salvadé. Cover image: Austin Young (Fallen Fruit), Temple of Flowers, 2025. Photo: Giovanni De Angelis.
The deep connection between nature and the world of art has ancient roots, dating back to religious beliefs, myths, and legends—beginning with the poignant tale of Narcissus as recounted by Ovid. Flowers, in particular, have long been used in literature and painting as bearers of deep historical and social significance, with each culture attributing different meanings based on its traditions. Today, Mother Nature’s evocative power continues to inspire artists across various disciplines, merging with new technologies to explore landscapes through artificial intelligence and augmented reality artworks. All art merged in a unexpected Flowers. From the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence
Flowers. From the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence: a synaesthetics exhibition in Rome
The Art of Flowers in All Its Forms
The exhibition “Flowers. From the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence” (on display until September 14, 2025) explores the deep connection between art and nature, focusing specifically on the power of flowers in all their forms. Hosted at the Chiostro del Bramante in Rome, it offers a unique journey into a rich universe that extends far beyond initial impressions. It connects to every aspect of life, from love to conflict, through the diverse shapes, scents, and colours that have taken on distinct roles in our society.
Curated by Franziska Stöhr with Roger Diederen, in collaboration with Suzanne Landau, and organised together with Kunsthalle München, this must-see exhibition embraces the connection between art and nature throughout history. It features a collection of 16th-century artworks, including paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and tapestries, while also looking toward the new millennium with augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
Among the great masters featured are Jan Brueghel the Elder, Girolamo Pini, Edward Burne-Jones, and William Morris. In contrast, contemporary artists like Ai Weiwei and Kapwani Kiwanga use sculpture to address social and environmental challenges, while innovators like Studio Drift and Kehinde Wiley present tech-driven interpretations of the floral world. More immersive installations include works by Miguel Chevalier and Rebecca Louise Law, adding depth to the experience.
The Chiostro del Bramante blends its 16th-century atmosphere with the prestige of renowned institutions such as the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London. With over 90 floral-themed artworks sourced from diverse origins, the exhibition also features loans from the Galleria Borghese, the Biblioteca Casanatense, the Badisches Landesmuseum, and the Israel Museum.
Flowers in Science and Politics: Symbolism Beyond Art
A special section of the exhibition is dedicated to flowers in science and politics, highlighting how these natural symbols have significantly influenced cultural and social dynamics. This includes discussions on ecological issues, exemplified by references to the artistic dimension of bees and their tireless pollination work, as well as their connections to civil rights movements.
Flowers. From the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence, the Exhibit that offers a Floral Olfactory Experience
Visitors will embark on two unique sensory journeys throughout the exhibition. Coldiretti presents a walk through the heart of the Chiostro, showcasing Italy’s biodiversity and floriculture traditions. Meanwhile, Campomarzio70 curates an olfactory journey centred around four noble flowers used in perfumery: orange blossom, jasmine, rose, and tuberose. Each flower is featured in a dedicated room, allowing visitors of all ages to experience an intimate connection with their fragrances and discover each floral essence. The sensory journey culminates in a final room where Flowers by Campomarzio70, a unique blend of these floral notes crafted for the occasion by master perfumer Luca Maffei, is diffused throughout the space.
The exhibition Flowers. From the Renaissance to Artificial Intelligence explores key concepts, symbolism, and cultural dynamics, weaving them into a sensory experience that promotes sustainability and ecological awareness. It examines the role of flowers in politics and science, highlighting the environmental impact of industries and engaging thousands of students in fostering a more conscious community. Even children can explore contemporary themes related to their world through customised workshops. Activities include creating their own “magical flower” and discovering the connection between bees, flowers, and art. This initiative guides younger generations toward a greater awareness of major global challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity conservation.
