Palazzo Smith becomes Casa Art Events

Palazzo Smith becomes “Casa Art Events”

A new chapter for one of Venice’s historic gems: after twelve years of silence, the main noble floor of Palazzo Smith Mangilli Valmarana—a splendid building overlooking the Grand Canal—reopens its doors under the new management of the Valorizzazioni Culturali – Art Events Group. A place steeped in history and beauty, now ready to embrace a new cultural, creative, and shared life. The only example of Neoclassical style in the city, the palace offers an environment of rare elegance: frescoed halls, refined stuccoes, precious marbles, and period chandeliers frame a project that looks to the future.

A new name, a new vision: Casa di Art Events
Calling it “Casa” means restoring the palace’s vocation as a living, open place, where art and ideas can find space and form. Here, every room tells a story, every corner invites connection and inspiration.

A story that spans centuries
Once the residence of the famous British consul Joseph Smith, agent of Canaletto, the palace was transformed in 1743 by architect Antonio Visentini, who gave it the elegant appearance it still retains today.
Within its walls once stood the celebrated sculpture *Amore e Psiche* by Antonio Canova, and legend has it that even Napoleon Bonaparte once rested in the palace’s monumental historic bathtub.
Among its unique features is the evocative Octagonal Room, formerly the countess’s chamber, now an integral part of the new cultural journey.

The present: a new beating heart for art
The palace reopened in 2024 for the exhibition *The Spirits of Maritime Crossing* by the Bangkok Art Biennale, during the Venice Biennale—marking the beginning of its rebirth.
Today, the main floor hosts the operational headquarters of Art Events, becoming a true hub of artistic production and cultural organization.
“Casa Art Events is not just a palace, but a place of hospitality and vision, where every project finds a soul and the possibility to become reality.”
— Filippo Perissinotto, President of the Valorizzazioni Culturali Group

Welcome to the Casa di Art Events
Casa Art Events is a bridge between past and future, between history and innovation. A point of reference for artists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries seeking a place to imagine and build together.
Welcome at Casa Art Events.