Born into one of Italy’s most storied families of enterprise and exploration, Inti Ligabue carries forward a legacy that bridges science, culture, and collecting. As president of the Giancarlo Ligabue Foundation and head of Ligabue Spa, he continues a multigenerational commitment to discovery—supporting research across disciplines while cultivating a personal collection shaped by history, travel, and a dialogue between past and present.
Inti Ligabue on a Life Shaped by Venice
Courtesy of Inti Ligabue. Photo by Joan Porcel.
Courtesy of Inti Ligabue.
WHITEWALL: Being from Venice carries a strong cultural and historical weight. What does that identity mean to you today?
INTI LIGABUE: Being born in Venice means feeling a deep sense of responsibility toward the city — for the beauty it expresses every day and for the energy it continues to convey.
This sense of recognition has also shaped part of my path as a collector. My focus has been also on figurative arts, with particular attention to Venetian artists from the 15th century to the Spatialists — from Palma il Giovane to Tancredi, From Tiepolo to Vedova or Jacopo Amigoni to Santomaso and Mario De Luigi.
I believe Venice has profoundly influenced the development of painting: the reflection of light on water, the quality of the atmosphere, and the continuous exchange between cultures have all contributed to a unique artistic sensitivity.
This awareness brings with it a responsibility — to preserve the city’s delicate nature while also recognizing its value and potential. Today, Venice stands as one of the world’s leading centers for contemporary art and is home to what is often described as a true “golden mile”, with an exceptional concentration of foundations and cultural institutions within a limited space.
At the same time, it maintains a slower rhythm of life that allows one to fully experience its beauty.
“Growing up surrounded by this level of beauty naturally develops a sensitivity to it.”
-Inti Ligabue.
WW: How do you navigate the balance between heritage and contemporaneity, especially during moments like the Biennale?
IL: It is precisely this balance that makes these moments in Venice so special — the Biennale, the Architecture Biennale, the Film Festival, Carnival, and the many cultural events the city offers.
What defines them is the equilibrium between tradition and artistic innovation. The beauty lies in the possibility of discovering new trends, new artistic forms, and new perspectives within a context that has shaped the history of art. Venice allows you to explore the contemporary while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural heritage.
WW: Venice is often described as a living artwork. Growing up within it, how has it shaped your perception of creativity?
IL: Growing up surrounded by this level of beauty naturally develops a sensitivity to it — a constant attention to what is visually and culturally meaningful.
Over time, countless artistic and architectural movements have left visible traces throughout the city, shaping my perception and refining my cultural awareness. This sensitivity extends across different fields, from figurative arts to architecture, and influences the way I observe and understand the world around me.
Protecting the Soul of Venice
Courtesy of Inti Ligabue. Photo by Joan Porcel.
WW: The Biennale brings an international lens onto Venice — what are you most excited to see or discover this year?
IL: I am particularly curious to see the Indian Pavilion curated by my friend Amin Jaffer, with whom we will also collaborate on a series of performances.
At the same time, I am very interested in seeing the reaction of visitors and friends to the opening of our Foundation, a project we have been working on for years. We will inaugurate on May 6 with the exhibition Collecto, which reflects a long journey of collecting across different cultures and historical periods, up to contemporary art.
We will also present an artist residency featuring a young Italian artist, as part of a dialogue between past and present that is central to our vision.
“The future of Venice depends on cultivating artistic spirit and cultural sensitivity in younger generations.”
-Inti Ligabue.
WW: In your view, how can Venice continue to evolve as a cultural capital without losing its soul?
IL: Venice is the planetary capital of Arts. The future of Venice depends on cultivating artistic spirit and cultural sensitivity in younger generations.
This means continuing to support institutions such as the Biennale, Bevilacqua La Masa, and the Academy of Fine Arts, while also encouraging young people to experience the city and engage with its cultural richness.
Education and sharing are essential. This is how you plant the seed of culture — a seed that, over time, can grow into a deeper appreciation of beauty, a stronger sense of awareness, and a more connected way of living together.
Courtesy of Inti Ligabue.
Courtesy of Inti Ligabue.
