The Path to Paradise

Reimagining Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise

An Exhibition by Pneuma Art Foundation in collaboration with Galleria Frilli

Exhibition Dates: November 2-11, 2025

Location: Sala D’arme Palazzo Vecchio | Florence, Italy

FREE ENTRY

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Discover a Modern Interpretation of a Renaissance Masterpiece

Pneuma is delighted to present The Path to Paradise, a captivating exhibition created in collaboration with Galleria Frilli. This unique event brings together contemporary artists to reimagine Lorenzo Ghiberti's iconic Baptistry Doors, famously known as the "Gates of Paradise."

About the Exhibition

Lorenzo Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors are a cornerstone of Renaissance art, celebrated for their intricate relief sculptures that depict profound narratives from the Old Testament. These ten panels have inspired generations with their artistry and storytelling. Galleria Frilli provides their exquisite replica of Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors for up close admiration and artistic interpretation. Read more about their process to create the replicas of the Baptistry doors here.

In Path to Paradise, we honor the 600th anniversary of Lorenzo Ghiberti’s historic commission for the Florence Baptistery doors, whose 10 magnificent bronze panels remain a pinnacle of Renaissance artistry. Bridging past and present, 37 Pneuma artists present original works inspired by the enduring narratives of these panels. Through painting, sculpture, and immersive installations, their creations offer fresh contemporary perspectives on timeless stories, celebrating the spirit of innovation that continues to shape our cultural heritage.

All art will be available for sale at the exhibition, including the panel replicas.

Exhibition Highlights

Galleria Frilli's Replica of the Gates of Paradise

As a centerpiece of the exhibition, Galleria Frilli provides their exquisite replica of Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors. In the 1990s, Frilli created two replicas of Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors: one now installed on the Baptistry in Florence, and the other featured in this exhibit. This allows visitors an up-close experience of the doors' grandeur and intricate details. Each of the 10 panels will be removed from the doors for up close viewing and appreciation.

Contemporary Art Inspired by Historic Panels

Each of the ten panels from Ghiberti's masterpiece is reimagined by selected artists. Artists may choose to depict the original story directly or take a more conceptual approach, drawing inspiration from the broader theme, aesthetic, composition, or poses of the panel. This approach creates a diverse collection of artworks that explore universal themes such as creation, faith, sacrifice, struggles, and redemption, all through a contemporary perspective.

Special Events

November 2, 2025 from 11:00 - 15:00: Artist Opening

• Join us for a soft opening of the exhibit and meet some of the artists exhibiting their works alongside Ghiberti’s bronze panels.

November 3, 2025 from 11:00: Conferenza Media e Preview della Mostra (Press Conference)

• This is a closed event for the media. By invitation only. Inquire about attending here.

November 3, 2025 from 17:00 - 19:00: Vernissage

• This is a closed event. By invitation only.

November 4-11, 2025 open from 11:00 - 17:00 (except Thursday/Giovedi, 11:00 - 14:00)

• Opening hours of the exhibit during the week.

November 4-10, 2025 from 11:00 - 12:30: Tour of Ghiberti’s Florence: From Workshop to Wonder

• Join an exclusive guided tour of the Path to Paradise exhibition at Palazzo Vecchio with art historian Dr. Alexandria Brown-Hejazi. Tickets are limited so please reserve yours in advance!

• Find out more about the exclusive tour here