While the Frist Art Museum has garnered a reputation for innovation, it’s recently debuted one of its most interactive exhibits yet. Upon entering Venice and the Ottoman Empire, the sounds of crashing waves instantly immerse visitors in the Mediterranean landscape. The exhibit represents the relationship between Venetians and Ottomans from 1400 to 1800. To do this, it effectively explores the similarities and differences in art, conflict and culture — and specifically, how both regions inspired each other. 

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Vittore Carpaccio. Portrait of Doge Leonardo Loredan, ca. 1501–5. Tempera and oil on panel; 26 1/2 x 20 1/8 in., Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia— Museo Correr, Cl. I n. 0043

Boasting a rich selection of over 150 works from seven renowned Venetian museums, the exhibit features ceramics, glass, metalwork, paintings, prints and textiles. And in true Frist fashion, painted creations are key players. The exhibit gathers exquisite canvases from revered Venetian artists such as Gentile Bellini and Vittore Carpaccio to anonymous craftspeople in both Venice and the Ottoman Empire. 

Each room focuses on a different subsect of cultural intersection. Revelers first become acquainted with Venetian doges and Ottoman sultans, as well as their distinguishing garments. The following rooms contain a myriad of treasures, including salvaged shipwreck artifacts and Venetian-inspired textiles by Spanish artist Mariano Fortuny. 

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Cesare Vecellio. Procession in Piazza San Marco, ca. 1597. Oil on canvas; 52 3/4 x 76 3/8 in. Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia—Museo Correr, Cl. I n. 2188

A section dedicated to the spice trade is a particular highlight. After gathering historical information and examining an ancient cookbook, guests begin their immersive scent experience, which showcases various Mediterranean aromas. A video installation featuring Nashville chefs Paulette Licitra and Ilyas Bakla further contextualizes the Venetians’ and Ottomans’ shared culinary culture while adding a local perspective. 

To learn more about Venice and the Ottoman Empire, visit https://fristartmuseum.org/exhibition/venice-and-the-ottoman-empire/.