Kicking off in late May, the spotlight now shifts to the “photographers of the past” – the painters – showcasing the works of Eugenio Cecconi, an artist from Livorno associated with the Macchiaioli movement and the creator of a lived and imaginary reality. Long before photography existed, these master painters had the task of freezing %eeting moments on canvas, producing vibrant social records that narrate their time. These remarkably lifelike artworks serve as the vibrant core of the “Days of Hunting and Color” exhibition, hosted by the Municipality and the Società di Belle Arti. Under the curation of Elisabetta Matteucci, this major summer exhibition will continue until November 9. Within the walls of this 18th-century building – a symbol of Forte – Maremma and the Tuscan countryside are (re)awakened to life: fifty stunning works depict majestic landscapes, strenuous moments of rural life, and hunting scenes (from preparations to the journey home). The honest realism of the Labronico painter shows butteri (mounted herders), hunters, loyal dogs, and above all, the “fierce women” toiling in the fields as haymakers, washerwomen, ferrywomen, and saleswomen. As you admire these beautiful canvases, you’ll feel the light and the patches (macchie) weaving together the drawing and the spirit of an extraordinary 19th-century painter who truly deserves to be known.

The historic Villa Bertelli, also from the 19th century, is another cultural treasure in the Vittoria Apuana district. The exhibition season commenced in Sala Ferrario with Nori De’ Nobili, in partnership with the Museum of Trecastelli named after her. This refined and contemporary artist from Pesaro presents “Works from the 1920s to the 1950s,” showcasing 17 pieces that capture landscapes, still lifes, daily scenes, and self-portraits, inviting viewers to experience the essence of 20th-century Florence. In June, Teresa Acacia Peyrani rounds out the summer lineup with “The World Around Me,” a photographic look at her daily life. July showcases Sara Forte’s “Cosmologies,” where the versatile artist experiments with a variety of techniques and themes. In August, don’t miss “Forte as Ever,” a selection of paintings by Florentine artist Elisabetta Rogai. Upstairs, the Quarto Platano Museum of Modern Art is celebrating its first anniversary this year and is a permanent must-see.

Beyond traditional cultural places, art is also making waves along Forte dei Marmi’s beaches. More and more beach clubs are transforming into open-air galleries, unleashing creativity in their environments. Among the exhibitions endorsed by the City, highlights include “It’s break time” by Jonathan Griffith and Valeria Vaccaro (until November 3), and Lorenzo Quinn’s “All We Need Is Love” (until the end of September), both at Bagno Alpemare, curated by Alberto Bartalini. In this way, beach resorts turn into fresh venues for installations and artistic experiences. For instance, at Bagno Alcione, guests can enjoy a monumental bronze sculpture by Jimenez Deredia, once again under the patronage of the Municipality. Similarly, numerous other artists are eager to contribute their work to these exhibiting “pop-ups” to bring beauty to every corner of Versilia—from the coast to the mountains—making art an essential part of the local experience!

The schedule of exhibitions and openings this summer at Versilia’s art galleries is overflowing even more so, it’s extremely packed! In Forte dei Marmi, Oblong Gallery, Barbara Paci Art Gallery and Tornabuoni Arte are complemented by the dynamic offerings from Laura Tartarelli Contemporary Art. This summer, Tartarelli presents the lively sculptural vehicles by French artist Antoine Dufilho. The exhibition titled “Dynamic Mythology” launches on Sunday, June 15, at 6:00 pm at the gallery space on Via Ponchielli 19. In the historic center of Pietrasanta, visiting the stunning galleries of Susanna Orlando and The Project Space is always a worthwhile experience. The Project Space features works from many international artists, including American Rachel Hovnanian, whose monumental piece “Poor Teddy in Repose” is currently displayed through September at the “Versilia” exit of the A12 highway. The exploration doesn’t stop there. You can also visit the atelier-gallery of Canadian sculptor Wendy Ramsay, open by appointment only at +39 348 0462663, and the new studio space of eclectic artist Tano Pisano, now open at Via del Marzocco 35. Also on the must-visit list in Pietrasanta is the Circle of Life Art Gallery by Tuscan artist Andrea Roggi. New to the scene is Galleria Bellina, with a curated selection of works by Marcello Bruognolo.