Florence, Italy – October 21, 2025

The 15th edition of the Florence Biennale – International Exhibition of Contemporary Art and Design is now in full swing, marking its third day at the iconic Fortezza da Basso. Running from October 18 to 26, the prestigious event brings together over 500 artists from more than 80 countries, transforming Florence into a vibrant hub of creativity and exchange.

Poster of the XV Florence Biennale

This year’s official theme, “The Sublime Essence of Light and Darkness,” invites artists to explore the tension and harmony between opposites—light and shadow, duality and unity—through the languages of contemporary art and design.

Among the participating artists, Korean painter Jennifer Lee (H.A. Lee) has captured the attention of visitors and curators alike with her evocative works that delve into the emotional traces left by light. Her recent series, featuring UV-reactive pigments, transcends the visible spectrum to reveal hidden hues and ephemeral afterimages under ultraviolet light.

“I wanted to visualize the emotional residue left where light disappears,” Lee explained. “Through this Biennale, I hope to share the unseen beauty that exists beyond the limits of human perception.”

Jennifer Lee’s oil painting “I See You Ⅲ” (above) and the same work under ultraviolet light (below)

Lee’s paintings—rooted in themes of memory, emotion, and transformation—invite viewers to pause and contemplate the interplay of illumination and absence. Her innovative use of UV-responsive materials bridges science and emotion, echoing the Biennale’s spirit of experimental dialogue between art and technology.

Founded in 1997, the Florence Biennale is a UNESCO- and Italian Ministry of Culture-endorsed event held biennially. It has become one of the world’s foremost platforms for contemporary art, encompassing visual arts, design, and new media.

The XV edition continues until October 26, featuring not only exhibitions but also artist talks, workshops, and live performances, fostering interaction between creators and the international art community.