by InTrieste
A groundbreaking exhibition of Andy Warhol’s work opened this weekend in the historic Palazzo Attems Petzenstein, marking a cultural milestone for Nova Gorica and Gorizia as they prepare to share the spotlight as the European Capital of Culture in 2025.
The exhibition, titled “Andy Warhol. Beyond Borders,” offers a deep dive into the life and art of one of the 20th century’s most iconic figures. Curated by Gianni Mercurio, it features 180 works, including the artist’s legendary Campbell’s Soup,Marilyn, and Flowers series, alongside portraits of luminaries such as Jackie Kennedy, Muhammad Ali, Grace Kelly, and even pop culture icons Superman and Mickey Mouse. Visitors can also explore rare books, magazines, and photographs of Warhol with celebrated artists and musicians from around the globe.
Massimiliano Fedriga, the governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia, heralded the exhibition as a defining moment for the region’s cultural ambitions. “This event perfectly balances cultural depth with mass appeal, aligning with our vision for Nova Gorica-Gorizia 2025,” he said at the opening ceremony. “For the first time, two cities in neighboring countries are uniting through culture, demonstrating the power of art to transcend borders.”
Art Without Borders
The exhibition, which runs through May 4, 2025, embodies the ethos of the Nova Gorica-Gorizia partnership. Positioned on the border between Italy and Slovenia, the two cities have long been symbols of unity and collaboration in a region shaped by diverse cultural influences.
“This is frontier culture at its finest,” said Mario Anzil, vice governor and cultural councillor for Friuli Venezia Giulia. “Warhol’s multifaceted genius mirrors the rich interplay of identities and traditions that define our region.”
The event also signals the broader ambitions of the Go!2025 initiative, which seeks to elevate the area’s global profile through a series of high-profile cultural programs. Anzil described the exhibition as a “preview” of the transformative year ahead, emphasizing its potential to draw international attention to Friuli Venezia Giulia.
A Window Into Warhol
Visitors to “Andy Warhol. Beyond Borders” will encounter not only the artist’s instantly recognizable imagery but also a rich context of his collaborations and inspirations. The collection includes candid photographs of Warhol with figures such as Mick Jagger and Debbie Harry, offering a glimpse into the vibrant creative circles that shaped his career.
Palazzo Attems Petzenstein, the exhibition’s venue, provides a fitting backdrop. Managed by the Regional Entity for the Cultural Heritage of Friuli Venezia Giulia (Erpac), the baroque palace has become a beacon for cultural events in the region, blending historical gravitas with modern artistic endeavors.
Global Appeal
The exhibition is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Europe and beyond, drawn not only by Warhol’s enduring appeal but also by the region’s unique cultural heritage. With tickets priced at €12 for adults and €8 for reduced admission, organizers are anticipating a steady stream of art lovers and curious tourists eager to engage with this landmark event.
As Fedriga noted, the exhibition exemplifies the Go!2025 mission to “showcase the region on a global scale.” For Nova Gorica and Gorizia, it is not just an artistic milestone but a statement of intent: in 2025, the eyes of the cultural world will be firmly fixed on this corner of Europe.
