A day in the eclectic energy of the Venice Biennale 2023 Gardens.

As the sun shines on the picturesque canals of Venice, we decided to immerse just for one day in the most important garden of Contemporary Art in the world. With pavilions scattered across the labyrinth "Giardini della Biennale" like hidden treasures, art enthusiasts find themselves on a challenging quest to explore the myriad of exhibits.

The clock is ticking, and the Biennale, set to conclude on November 26, 2023, has proven to be a captivating journey through contemporary art with a big focus of what we consider a mother art, Architecture.

Under the title "The Laboratory of the Future," Lesley Lokko, the Ghanaian-Scottish curator of this year's biennale, has succeeded in her aim to showcase under-represented talent from Africa and beyond. Lokko's vision for the biennale extends beyond traditional architectural models, encompassing art, performance, games, activism, and other ways of inhabiting physical space.

A World of Diverse Perspectives

The biennale's decentralized nature, with pavilions spread across Giardini, Arsenale, and the city center, adds to its allure but also presents a logistical challenge for visitors attempting to absorb everything in a single day. Careful planning and strategic navigation are essential, leaving little room for spontaneous detours.

Encounters with the Unexpected

Despite the challenges of navigating the biennale's labyrinthine layout, the rewards are plentiful. Visitors are greeted by a large screen featuring the poet Rhael "Lionheart" Cape, proclaiming that "if architecture doesn't serve feelings it serves a psychosis." This sets the tone for a journey through diverse perspectives and unconventional expressions of architecture.

Africa Takes Center Stage

In line with Lokko's curatorial vision, the biennale places a strong emphasis on showcasing the work of African artists and architects. The Nordic countries pavilion, for instance, has been transformed into a vibrant display of Sámi culture, while the British pavilion presents a compelling film compilation exploring the lives and traditions of minority groups in Britain.

Challenges and Contradictions

Lokko's endeavor to reshape the biennale's traditional narrative inevitably presents challenges and contradictions. The sheer scale of the event, with its numerous pavilions and exhibits, can make it difficult to fully appreciate each offering. Additionally, some of the more conceptual and experimental works may not resonate with all visitors.

A Glimpse into the Future

Despite these challenges, Lokko's curatorial vision has undoubtedly expanded the biennale's scope and introduced new voices to the global art scene. The All-African Protoport, an imaginary sustainable transport network envisioned by the Nigerian-American artist Olalekan Jeyifous, stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and architecture to shape a more equitable and sustainable future.

A Legacy of Change

While the 2023 Venice Biennale may not be without its flaws, it has undoubtedly made a significant mark on the art world. Lokko's curatorial vision has challenged the status quo and opened doors for under-represented voices, leaving an indelible legacy that will shape the biennale for years to come.

Attempting to traverse the Gardini section of the Venice Biennale in a single day proves to be an ambitious feat. The diverse array of pavilions demands a careful balance of time and attention, each offering a unique lens into the cultural and artistic landscape of its respective country. From the avant-garde explorations of France to the Indigenous narratives of Australia, the Gardini section is a treasure trove of global perspectives, making the Venice Biennale 2023 a truly enriching and memorable experience.

As the closing date of November 26, 2023, approaches, visitors are urged to savor every moment, immersing themselves in the kaleidoscope of creativity that defines this international celebration of contemporary art.

If you are close by and don't want to let the chance past, you have till the end of this week! For more info visit https://www.labiennale.org/en/architecture/2023