Three illustrators, three eras, three sensibilities: Pauline Baynes, Roberto Innocenti, and Irene Penazzi come together in an exhibition that celebrates the art of illustrated maps and the power of imagination. Although they belong to different generations and cultural contexts, their works converse effortlessly, like milestones on a single, expansive creative cartography.
From the elegant maps by Pauline Baynes, which shaped the worlds of Tolkien and Lewis, to the richly detailed, memory-laden compositions of Roberto Innocenti, and the poetic, contemporary landscapes of Irene Penazzi, populated with paths, animals, children, and seasons: each artist offers a unique way of narrating the world through images.
These maps are not merely representations of places, but invitations to travel. They guide us through real and imaginary landscapes, between history and dream, turning every visitor—adult or child—into an explorer. Looking at them means crossing emotional and narrative territories, discovering details, getting lost and finding oneself again.
The exhibition is conceived to connect the past and present of illustration, tradition and experimentation, guiding lines and evocative colours. An experience that invites both young and adult audiences to rediscover the pleasure of daydreaming with open eyes.
