The Venice Biennale, a premier international art exhibition established in Venice in 1895, is celebrating its 60th iteration this year. This year’s event, running from late April to November 24, 2024, unfolds across the iconic Giardini and Arsenale venues with the theme ‘Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere’.
This Year’s Exhibition Theme
Curated by Adriano Pedrosa, the exhibition draws inspiration from Claire Fontaine’s striking neon sculptures, which prominently feature the phrase ‘Foreigners Everywhere’ in various languages. This evocative title pays tribute to the Turin-based collective Stranieri Ovunque, renowned for their activism against racism and xenophobia. The theme delves into issues of language, translation, nationality, and identity, showcased through the work of 331 artists and collectives. As Venice Biennale President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco aptly puts it, “The 60th Biennale edition encapsulates its essence through these potent and provocative words.”
Highlights of the Biennale
One of the must-see highlights this year is Massimo Bartolini’s ‘Due qui / To hear’, featured in the Italian Pavilion at the Tese delle Vergini within the Arsenale. This immersive installation and sound piece, Bartolini’s second for the pavilion since his debut in 2013, invites visitors to navigate through shifting environments and auditory experiences, blending movement and contemplation.
Additionally, the Applied Arts Pavilion, now in its eighth edition and presented in collaboration with London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, showcases the work of Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes. Curator Adriano Pedrosa has selected Milhazes to create five expansive paintings inspired by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of traditional woven textiles from various cultures.
Among the notable fringe events is ‘Cosmic Garden’, presented by the Chanakya Foundation at Salon Verde – Art & Social Club on Calle della Regina. This exhibition features the work of renowned Indian artisans Madhvi Parekh and Manu Parekh, alongside Karishma Swali, Artistic Director of Mumbai’s Chanakya School of Craft. This non-profit institution is dedicated to empowering women through craft, and the exhibition, curated by Paola Ugolini and Maria Alicata, celebrates the rich artisanal heritage of India.
