In a city steeped in history, where the legacy of Renaissance masters still thrives, the contemporary art world finds a vibrant stage. Venice, the birthplace of Marco Polo, echoes with tales of exploration and cultural immersion. Today, diverse languages intertwine amidst its canals, bridges and medieval streets, reflecting a timeless spirit of discovery.
The theme of the 60th Venice Biennale, “Foreigners Everywhere,” which continues through November 24, delves into the intricate dynamics of identity, belonging and cultural exchange in our increasingly interconnected world. This theme reverberates through the streets of Venice, creating an atmosphere that invites reflection on human migration and cultural diversity. Individual artists and collectives transform churches, palazzos and stores, introducing contemporary art into these centuries-old spaces, rich with the memories of their past owners, destructions, renovations and historical contexts. The intertwining of past and present fosters a sense of continuity and reinvention, offering new perspectives on history. As a universal language, art challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones and engage with fresh ideas, viewpoints and experiences.
Adriano Pedrosa, the Brazilian curator for the 60th Venice Biennale, is celebrated for his exhibitions that confront political and social issues. He also serves as the director of the Museum of Modern Art in São Paulo, housed in a building designed by the Italian-born Brazilian architect Lina Bo Bardi. Bo Bardi pioneered an architectural philosophy blending modernist ideals with a profound respect for Brazilian culture and social consciousness. Among her revolutionary innovations are the glass easels showcased in the Arsenale exhibition. These structures feature a glass panel supported by a concrete cube, offering a distinctive approach to displaying art. Bo Bardi first introduced these easels during the inauguration of the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) in 1968, marking a significant departure from traditional exhibition methods.
Pedrosa’s vision for the Biennale also included transforming the neoclassical facade of the Giardini’s main building, a symbol of the event, with a vibrant mural created by MAHKU, a collective of Indigenous Huni Kuin artists from Brazil. This mural underscores the curator’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives within the art world, juxtaposing indigenous Amazonian art with the historical architecture of the building.