An important point of reference on Milan’s art scene, from the moment of its foundation “La Permanente” has always staged exhibitions of considerable international interest. A show titled “Lombard painting in the 19th century” was staged in the early 20th century, while after the Second World War, the location was used for Milan’s National Biennial events. In 1953, many masterpieces were shown in the show titled “Women in art, from Hayez to Modigliani”. Every year an important Exhibition of antique books is organized here.
Today the space is highly flexible, and therefore ideal for contemporary art installations and exhibitions.The Palazzo della Permanente was built between 1888 and 1895 in neo-Renaissance style and was one of the first projects by architect Luca Beltrami. The aim of the two founding Boards, Società per le Belle Arti and Esposizione Permanente di Belle Arti, before the construction of the Palazzo was to “popularize art in all its forms”.Over the years, the Museo della Permanente was gradually developed, taking official form in 1992. It possesses an important artistic heritage with works from the last few centuries. It comprises works that won art competitions, as well as donations from artists and collectors.The range of the works at the museum is quite considerable, including names such as F. Hayez, T. Cremona, D. Ranzoni, G. Previati, M. Bianchi, G. Pellizza da Volpedo, A. Morbelli, G. Induno, L. Vela, F.T. Marinetti, U. Boccioni, M. Sironi, A. Funi, C. Carrà, A. Rossi, T. Longaretti and G. Ajmone.