Telfair Museums Open Michelangelo Exhibition in Savannah
The Jepson Center now features rare works from the Casa Buonarroti alongside a second exhibit on women's history.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Fine Art
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local museum exhibitions in your area this year?
Telfair Museums has launched a new exhibition at the Jepson Center in Savannah focusing on the female figures in Michelangelo's work. The collection includes drawings, poetry, and letters that have traveled to the United States for the first time.
Why it matters
By pairing these rare Renaissance pieces with a secondary exhibition titled Remember the Ladies, the museum offers a comprehensive look at historical and artistic depictions of women. This collaboration between the Telfair and Casa Buonarroti Firenze provides a unique opportunity for residents to engage with international art.
The exhibition at the Jepson Center, located at 207 W. York St., includes official reproductions of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the Last Judgment. These items will remain on display for public viewing through January 24, 2027.
The players
Telfair Museums
This is a historic art museum organization based in Savannah that manages multiple facilities including the Jepson Center.
Casa Buonarroti Firenze
This is a museum and cultural foundation in Florence, Italy, dedicated to the preservation of Michelangelo's artistic and personal legacy.
Vittoria Colonna
She was an influential Italian noblewoman and poet who maintained a long and significant intellectual relationship with Michelangelo.
Dr. Emily Fenichel
She is an academic scheduled to provide an expert lecture regarding the exhibition content at the Jepson Center.
Savannah Consort
This is a local musical performance group that will contribute to the programming surrounding the museum exhibition.
The details
The exhibition utilizes curated correspondence and poetry to examine Michelangelo's artistic portrayal of women, specifically highlighting Vittoria Colonna and Rosina Vendramin. Visitors can view the collection at the Jepson Center, which is also hosting the accompanying exhibition Remember the Ladies.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: Free Family Day event.
November 12, 2026: Lecture by Dr. Emily Fenichel.
December 11, 2026: Performance by the Savannah Consort.
January 24, 2027: Exhibition closing date.
Industry Dynamics
The collaboration between Telfair Museums and the Casa Buonarroti Firenze highlights the growing importance of international cultural partnerships in bringing rare Renaissance collections to regional American markets. This trend allows local institutions to host high-profile exhibits that previously required travel to major global art hubs.
Visitors can access the exhibits at the Jepson Center through January 2027. Patrons interested in specific programming should note the scheduled lecture and performance dates, which require planning to ensure ticket availability.
The takeaway
Engaging with primary sources like poetry and letters can deepen a viewer's understanding of an artist's personal influences. Guests should check the museum calendar early to coordinate their visits with the scheduled lectures and live performances.
Further reading
Discover more about the local arts scene at Savannah Fine Art.
More information
For admission details or to plan your visit, see the Telfair Museums admission and ticket information.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Grice Connect.
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local museum exhibitions in your area this year?
