Moving to Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel in Venice at the more breezy end of summer, NOMAD propels an invigorating program of contemporary design, art, and historic design through the palazzo’s gothic walls. We are proud to announce a selection of special projects which stand out and highlight NOMAD’s affinity for the unconventional, next to an elegant gallery line-up which is ever expanding in its exclusive variety, geographical richness and sense of wonder.
NOMAD Venice is taking place in partnership with the Venice Glass Week, aiming to strengthen one of Venice's historic artisan crafts and remaining industries. Venetian glassmaking exists since the 8th Century, and its tradition encompasses master-glassmakers working with materials of a special chemical composition melted under high temperatures in furnaces. With regards to the rich cultural heritage of Murano, the presence of leading artisans, renowned furnaces and schools, NOMAD is looking forward to initiate an international survey of the material and its contemporary diaspora through special projects, commissions and collaborations between local craft and global galleries or designers.
The venue, Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel, is a Gothic palace built in 1473 on the southernmost tip of the Cannaregio quarter in Venice. With 3.500 sqm on four floors, the period-listed building was once the residence of wealthy Flemish textile merchants. Closed to the public until 2017, the palace has been restored with special attention to historical integrity over the duration of seven years.