Designer Sara Battaglia’s guide to Milan’s art scene

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This article is part of a Milan guide by FT Globetrotter

Art and creativity have always been part of my life. I grew up in a family of artists: my mother is a sculptor and teaches here in Milan, at the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, while one of my brothers is a gallery owner, the other a set designer and 3D artist, and my sister and I am creative directors and I direct my homonymous brand. There are many ways to immerse yourself in art in Milan, even if you only have 24 hours.

In my opinion, to better understand contemporary art it is essential to first immerse yourself in the classic. The most precious work of art in Milan is undoubtedly “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci, located in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a church and convent that has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This world-famous mural captures a pivotal moment in Christian history and is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Milan’s art scene extends beyond this masterpiece. He Brera Pinacoteca is another cultural gem, featuring an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by Caravaggio, Raphael and Tintoretto.

The Brera area is the heart of the city. A new gallery has recently opened called MAD2, which showcases contemporary artists from around the world. Nearby there is another gallery, Antonio Battagliaspecialized in artists from the 60s and 70s.

If you’re hungry, Brera is full of fantastic restaurants. One of my favorites for lunch or a snack during a cultural day is the elegant The dildoa historic Milanese venue known for its excellent seafood dishes, where the Italian singer mine He is a frequent customer.

In moving areas, one of the most internationally recognized galleries is Lia Ruma, representing some of my favorite artists such as Vanessa Beecroft, Marina Abramović, Anselm Kiefer and others. Its current exhibition (until July 13) reflects on the work of Tomás Maldonado, Argentine artist and designer, and includes works by Piero Dorazio, Enzo Mari and Bruno Munari, among several others. Not far from this gallery is Nilúfar by Nina Yashar, a fantastic place for designer furniture.

With artists ranging from Carla Accardi to Bonalumi and Lucio Fontana, Cardi Gallery, which focuses on modern and contemporary Italian art, is always a recommendation of mine; I find it very inspiring. After seeing his latest exhibition, I often head out for a drink not far from there, Venice Road — there is a beautiful new bar with live music called rumor, where you can also dine; is part of the meat bar restaurant next door.

My inspiration for collections often comes from art, and one particularly special place for me is the Prada Foundation, one of the most influential contemporary art spaces in Milan. Founded by the luxury fashion brand, this venue showcases avant-garde works and thematic exhibitions. Its current exhibition (until September 23) explores the work of the late Italian artist Pino Pascali, who continues to shape generations of artists today. (tower The Fondazione restaurant is also tremendously elegant.)

I also get excited every time I go to the PirelliBicocca Hangar, a vast industrial space (it produced airplanes and other equipment for the World War I effort) that has become one of the largest art spaces in Europe. It is an essential part of Milan’s contemporary art scene.

Milan Triennale, the art and design museum in the Parco Sempione area, is known for its exhibitions of contemporary architecture and design, but also hosts exhibitions of modern art. The building itself is also beautiful, designed by the famous Milanese architect Giovanni Muzio and built in the early 1930s. It also houses a beautiful garden with a bar.

Another hidden gem worth knowing is Tomasso Calabro, a gallery that specializes in modern and contemporary art and features artists such as Giorgio de Chirico and Man Ray. It is located in the Marietti Palacedating back to the 15th century.

What are your favorite art spaces in Milan? Tell us in the comments below. AND follow FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter