From May 14 to 17, 2026, the fairy city of Venice will transform into an open laboratory for emerging fashion and contemporary arts. VBRA Venezia is set to launch its latest edition, “The New Creative Voice,” gathering over 50 innovative designers and brands from around the globe. This vibrant initiative will fill some of Venice’s most evocative spaces with compelling exhibitions, runway shows, performances, and pop-ups, illustrating the interplay between fashion, art, and cultural expression.
Founded in April 2024 by siblings Francesca and Paolo Marco de Paoli, VBRA Venezia is an independent cultural platform dedicated to promoting authentic creative expression within the city. With a commitment to countering the challenges of mass tourism and depopulation, VBRA works to restore value to those who deeply inhabit the city. By mixing local and international talent, VBRA seeks to redefine Venice as a fresh, evolving cultural hub rather than merely a tourist destination.
“‘The New Creative Voice’ represents the heart of our vision,” the founders explain. “It’s about welcoming new talents and deepening connections with the local community—a transformative event that connects and uplifts through creativity.”
Today Venice is threatened by commercialization, VBRA Venezia underscores the need for conscious tourism rooted in cultural appreciation. This event champions a creative ecosystem that values exploration and artistic risk-taking, challenging industry norms that often prioritize profitability over meaning.
“We ask the tough questions,” the organizers state. “When did taste become secondary? We want to highlight the importance of critical engagement in a landscape where the louder voices often overshadow more nuanced expressions.”
The theme for this edition—taste—serves as both an intimate and a political exploration, threading through every aspect of the event. VBRA Venezia invites participants and audiences alike to reflect on their own definitions of taste and the role it plays in their lives, positioning it as a critical act of self-expression and cultural commentary.
The carefully curated selection of designers reflects VBRA’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Each participant will bring forth new ideas and ethical practices, contributing to a creative landscape that prioritizes artistry and responsibility.
SEE THE FULL SELECTION + PROGRAM HERE
VBRA Venezia is about showcasing fashion through a dialogue that engages both creators and the community. By providing a platform for emerging talents and aligning with local institutions, the initiative champions Venice as a living, breathing center for culture and creativity.
Partnering with Fondazione Sozzani
In partnership with Fondazione Sozzani, an institution founded in Milan to promote art, photography, design, and fashion through exhibitions and educational programs, VBRA Venezia emphasizes responsible creative practices and the preservation of cultural heritage. The collaboration also highlights social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at nurturing the next generation of creatives.
Follow VBRA Venezia HERE
Website: https://www.vbravenezia.com/
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