"LIBERE! 1946-2026. Le conquiste delle donne" exhibition in Milan

Gallerie d'Italia - Milano, from 26 September 2026 to 7 February 2027, present the exhibition “LIBERE! 1946-2026. Le conquiste delle donne", conceived and curated by Renata Ferri. The project is organised by iO Donna in collaboration with Gallerie d’Italia – Milano.

The exhibition traces almost eighty years of women’s achievements in Italy, starting with the right to vote, exercised for the first time on 2 June 1946, symbolising women’s entry into democratic life in the country.

Using pictures taken from major historical archives, the exhibition explores the struggles, social changes and cultural transformations that  marked the path towards emancipation. Work emerges as one of the central elements of this journey: from the post-war rice paddy workers to the factory and office workers of the economic boom, women gradually became key players in society, moving beyond traditional roles and stereotypes.

The exhibition also explores the birth and evolution of the feminist movement, battles for fundamental rights such as divorce and abortion, and the legislative achievements that have strengthened women’s freedom and self-determination. Alongside the major collective demonstrations, a special tribute is paid to women who have contributed to Italian history in the fields of culture, science, institutional life and the arts.

The tour ends with a look at contemporary female artists, who tell the story of today's complexities with photographs and multimedia works, reminding us that, while much has been achieved, we still have a long way to go on the road to true equality.