The Path to Paradise in Florence: American Artists Reimagine Ghiberti’s Masterpiece

Six centuries after Lorenzo Ghiberti signed the contract to create what would later be called the Gates of Paradise, Florence once again becomes a bridge between past and present. The exhibition The Path to Paradise – Verso il Paradiso, hosted in the Sala d’Arme of Palazzo Vecchio, celebrates the 600th anniversary of Ghiberti’s genius through the eyes of 37 contemporary artists from five continents — many of them from the United States.

A Contemporary Tribute to a Renaissance Icon

The exhibition, promoted by Frilli Gallery of Florence and the Pneuma Art Foundation from the U.S., invites visitors to rediscover the timeless beauty of the Gates of Paradise — the eastern doors of the Baptistery of San Giovanni, which Michelangelo once described as “fit to be the gates of Paradise.”

Each participating artist was invited to choose one of the ten biblical panels designed by Ghiberti and reinterpret its message through their own medium — painting, sculpture, mixed techniques, or multi-material creations. The result is a fascinating dialogue between faith, humanity, and creativity, echoing the enduring influence of Renaissance ideals in contemporary art.

American Artists Take Center Stage

Among the 37 selected artists, several hail from the United States, bringing a strong and diverse American presence to Florence’s cultural heart.

From New York to California, these creators contribute works that merge classical inspiration with modern themes. Adam Miller, known for his figurative oil paintings inspired by Old Masters, reinterprets Abraham and Isaac in a powerful dialogue between sacrifice and faith.

Allison Baxter presents a resin bas-relief exploring material depth and light, while Gabriel Akre and John Belardo bring sculptural perspectives that resonate with Ghiberti’s mastery of bronze and relief.

Painters such as Sasha Samuels, Cassandra Diaz, and Poiret Masse contribute canvases that bridge the sacred and the contemporary, offering reflections on identity, renewal, and transcendence.

“The Path to Paradise” thus becomes not only a celebration of Florentine heritage but also an international stage where American artistry converses directly with Italy’s Renaissance soul.

Tradition, Legacy, and a New Renaissance

Curated by Luna Jasmine Gordon (USA), the exhibition juxtaposes faithful replicas of Ghiberti’s ten panels — cast by the historic Frilli Gallery — with modern reinterpretations placed opposite them. Visitors can admire the bronze reliefs up close and experience how contemporary creators respond to ancient narratives such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses, and David and Goliath.

At the far end of the hall, the monumental frame of the Gates of Paradise is draped with ermisino silk — a shimmering, handwoven textile from Florence’s Antico Setificio Fiorentino — symbolizing continuity between craftsmanship, light, and spiritual artistry.

The Pneuma Art Foundation, founded by Brett and Olivia Colbert in 2022, aims to bridge classical heritage with contemporary creation. “We believe that Florence’s light can still inspire the world,” said Brett Colbert. “Beauty born here belongs to everyone.”

Supported by the City of Florence and Fondazione CR Firenze, the exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the enduring dialogue between the Renaissance and today’s search for meaning and beauty.

Visitor Information

Exhibition: The Path to Paradise – Verso il Paradiso
Venue: Sala d’Arme, Palazzo Vecchio – Piazza della Signoria, Florence
Dates: November 3 – 11, 2025
Hours: Daily 11 AM – 5 PM (Thursdays 10 AM – 2 PM)
Admission: Free entry

Tuscany.Tips Suggestion

While visiting The Path to Paradise, take the time to explore more of Palazzo Vecchio — including the Arnolfo Tower — or walk to the nearby Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci.

Planning a trip to Tuscany? Download the GetYourGuide app and enjoy 5% off any experience with the code BRASILNAITALIANET5 (new users only — learn more here).

If you’re in Florence on a Monday, check our guide to Florence on Mondays to find the best places open that day. And since November offers some of the lowest hotel rates of the year, it’s the perfect time to indulge in one of the city’s luxury hotels in Florence.