Venice is one of the most magical, timeless places I can think of. A floating city steeped in tradition and culture, and characterized by winding alleys and canals, it is truly a goldmine of inspiration. I have visited Venice many times and each time I go, I am awestruck by the city's rich colors. The crystal blue of Murano glass, the red brick of the palazzos, the dramatic black of the gondolas, the purple and pink of the traditional Venetian masks -- the eye-catching colors are endless.
Beyond color, Venice is a place of great architecture and design, which is why it is home of the Arts Biennale, an international festival of contemporary art (www.labiennale.org). Artists from around the world apply to have their art displayed in Venice's grand palaces and churches, transforming the city into an even more beautiful and creative space.
With the Biennale taking place now, I have Venice on the mind! Make sure to have a look at parts of the festival, but in the meantime, I'd like to share some images of the city. They are truly inspiring for my design ventures, and hopefully they will be for you as well.
Please enjoy!
1 This photo looks old, but its antique view of Venice is still accurate today. (pininterest.com)
2 A black and white photo gives you a better perception of the architecture of the city. The buildings look as if they are literally floating on the water -- and they are! (designspiration.com)
3 A birds-eye view of the city showcases its unique position and construction. (blackeiffel.blogspot.com)
4 Piazza San Marco (pinterest.com)
5 It is truly a city of contrasts -- light and dark, old and new. (topdesignmag.com)
6 This is a light installation set up for the Biennale. The fixtures are amazing -- so simple and elegant. (interiordesign.net)
7 This is a light installation by Spencer Finch, set up for the Venice Biennale. (olivegoldwine.blogspot.com)
8 The way the buildings line the canal and stand like matches in a box, side by side, is truly unique to Venice. (travelandleisure.com)
9 The island off of Venice known as Burano, is full of vibrant, punchy color. (photography-edu.com)
10 The gondolier is so emblematic of Venice. (atreelinedstreet.com)
11 Here is a close up of the famous Venetian Gondola. (apartmenttherapy.com)
12 This painting reflects a typical Venetian color palate -- it shows you how interconnected art and design really are, even centuries ago! ("Bacchus and Ariadne", painting by Titian, 1523)
13 Another famous painting executed in the 16th century with a noticeably Venetian style and inspiration. ("The Miracle of St. Mark", painting by Tintoretto, 1548)
14 A window shot of the traditional Venetian masks. They make a fun, whimsical decorating item. (iamfashion.blogspot)
15 Piazza San Marco can be captured from so many angles. (topdesignmag.com)
16 An interior of Cafe Florian, the oldest coffee house in continuous operation in the world! Its design is beautifully old-world. Gold embellishments and intricate moldings make the cafe a true tourist destination. (thecountrypolitan.blogspot.com)
17 The Hotel Cipriani is a staple of Venice. Its views and accomodations are special, and worth a peek. (hotelcipriani.com)
18 Look at how the water meets up against the buildings. This is really an awesome image of a typical view in Venice. (pininterest.com)
19 Framed or just as a fun poster on the wall, I love this map. (pininterest.com)
20 A great guide to Venice for your kids! ("This is Venice" by M. Sasek)
21 So many artists have fallen in love with Venice. John Ruskin in particular, an art critic and draftsman, found inspiration in the architecture and design of the city. He compiled this book, 'The Stones of Venice' in its honor -- it is a true masterpiece.
Kevin Sharkey 
From: Rowaida Flayhan | 7/26/11 at 3:11 am
Gorgeous post Kevin! I love Venice, I love Italy. Hope you are enjoying your summer best of luck.
From: Susan T | 7/26/11 at 10:07 am
Kevin -- Have you read "City of Falling Angels"?
From: Venetian Masks | 4/10/13 at 11:38 pm
Behind the beauty of Venice, Italy; I wonder what are the negative things about the city.
BTW you have great shots!