MAAT presents the exhibition “VENUS – Valentino Garavani Through the Eyes of Joana Vasconcelos,” a project that bridges the worlds of contemporary art and haute couture.
The exhibition space has been transformed to foster a direct visual dialogue between the large-scale installations by visual artist Joana Vasconcelos and the archival dresses by Italian designer Valentino Garavani.
Shapes, Lights, and Textures
The exhibition is marked by the juxtaposition of exuberant works. On one side are Joana Vasconcelos’s illuminated textile sculptures, rich in vibrant colors, dense textures, and patterns that fill and illuminate the gallery. On the other, detailed haute couture pieces by Valentino, displayed on mannequins, punctuate the space, positioned in close relation to the artistic structures suspended from the ceiling and arranged on the floor.
The fashion selection includes dresses that explore a wide range of techniques and materials, in a visual journey that incorporates the voluminous work *Valkyrie Venus*, created in 2025, adapted here with various blocks of color and fabrics to complement the Valentino dresses brought to this exhibition.
Also on display are creations adorned with black fringe, pink feathers, pleated fabrics, and fine beaded embroidery, which contrast directly with the baroque aesthetic of the Portuguese artist’s installations.
The intersection of these two artistic languages results in an immersive experience within the space, highlighting the color, volume, and technical complexity present in both the garments and the works of art.
Other Notable Works
The exhibition also features several iconic works by Joana Vasconcelos, such as Marilyn (the giant high heels created from pots and lids), the Garden of Eden (an immersive maze of artificial flowers through which visitors can stroll), and the Independent Heart #3 (a reinterpretation of Viana’s classic heart molded from plastic cutlery).
Useful information:
Address: Avenida Brasília (Belém)
Dates: through February 22, 2027
Tickets: starting at 9€
Don’t miss out! Follow us onFacebook,Instagram, and now onWhatsApp too!