From customs clearance at Malpensa airport to delivery by specialized barge: Asian Logistics brings Ecuadorian masterpieces to the heart of the Italian Lagoon.
Transporting contemporary Ecuadorian art to the center of Venice is a complex challenge that requires a perfect blend of international freight forwarding and specialized lagoon logistics.
In preparation for the opening of the “AMAZONIEN” exhibition (May 9 – November 22, 2026), Asian Logistics, a Venice-based international forwarder, managed the entire supply chain for the works of artist Marcello Martínez Vega. Our team handled everything from airport pick-up to the Venetian quayside, working in close synergy with specialized local lagoon operators.
Our role was pivotal in ensuring a seamless transition between international transit and water transport, prioritizing the safety and integrity of the delicate materials at every stage.
Fine Art Handling: A Dialogue Between Matter and Nature
The installations created by Martínez Vega for “AMAZONIEN” represent a significant logistical challenge, not only due to their scale but their hybrid composition. These pieces fuse natural elements and wood with industrial aluminum and steel structures.
Handling these materials requires extreme precision:
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Sensitivity: While steel and aluminum offer structural solidity, the treated surfaces are highly sensitive to vibrations or impacts.
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Scale: Managing crates over 6 meters long requires expert maneuvering to ensure the installations maintain perfect flatness.
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Aesthetics: The final finish must remain flawless to respect the sacred environment of the host Church.
Inside Delivery: Expert Coordination in Venice
The project’s success relied on three technical pillars of art shipping and handling:
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Import Customs Clearance: At Milan Malpensa (MXP) Airport, we managed the specialized customs procedures for artworks arriving from Ecuador, ensuring full regulatory compliance for entry into Italy.
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Oversized Cargo Management: We coordinated the road transport of voluminous crates—including installations exceeding 6 meters and weights over 1,100 kg—ensuring timely arrival at the Venice terminal.
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Specialized Lagoon Transport: In collaboration with Venetian water carriers, the works were transferred to a barge equipped with a hydraulic crane. This synergy allowed for the final “inside delivery” and positioning of the works directly within the Church of Santa Maria della Visitazione (Dorsoduro).
Thanks to this coordinated effort, the exhibition is ready for its May 9th debut, creating a cultural bridge between the Amazonian ecosystem and the historic beauty of Venice.
