The event celebrates the centenary of a significant cultural milestone: the first artwork loaned from the Uffizi Galleries to the Italian Embassy in Washington. This gesture marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of bringing masterpieces from Italy’s vast artistic heritage to the forefront of diplomatic spaces.

Art is a very powerful form of communication transcending borders, languages, and history. When the Uffizi first lent a piece to the Embassy, it wasn’t just about displaying a beautiful work of art; it was about showcasing Italy’s soul and heritage.

The event will see the participation of Ambassador Zappia together with Simone Verde, Director of the Uffizi Galleries, who will also engage into a conversation about the importance role that art plays in diplomacy.

It will also be the occasion to present a small catalog with contributions from the Director of the Uffizi Galleries and the esteemed art historian, Maria Sframeli, which will offer an overview of the history of the fruitful collaboration between Uffizi Galleries and the Embassy.

PROGRAM

5:45 pm - Guests arrival

 

6:00 pm - Opening Remarks

Mariangela Zappia
Ambassador of Italy to the United States

 

6:10 pm - Conversation moderated by Aviva Rosenthal, Director of Global Affairs, Smithsonian Institution

 

Simone Verde
Director, Uffizi Galleries

Megan Beyer
Director, Art in Embassies

Joseph Angemi
Senior Curator, Office of Cultural Heritage, U.S. Department of State

 

7:00 pm – Cocktail reception