VENICE (TURKISH JOURNAL) – By Janet Ekstract – The quality of space itself and a generosity of spirit are two primary themes to be explored at this year’s 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale Di Venezia, (Biennale Architettura 2018) which opens to the public on May 26.
What makes this year’s biennale so extraordinary is the depth and breadth of how diverse spaces are explored and the originality each country brings to their individual pavilions. The 2018 exhibition which runs through November 25 promises to delight, inform and change your mind about the way you ever viewed buildings, spaces and architectural concepts.
The driving force behind this 21st century masterpiece of space consists of two women – Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara who chose the title “Freespace” to describe a “generosity of spirit” and a sense of humanity at the core of architecture’s agenda.”
The ability to address “the unspoken wishes of strangers” and the ability to bring people together in spaces that encourage and enhance collaborative environments to start a conversation around what makes a space great and how a specific use of architecture can transform not just the space but the people in it as well.
Emotional and intellectual engagement will be the predominant purpose comingled with a sense of how various types of light affect unique spaces and how light plays against eclectic architectural backdrops to create scenes, ideas and inspiration that better enable individuals in that space to truly inhabit it.
Inhabiting space in a way that reflects one’s individuality and allows for a wide swath of creativity and opportunity to explore are made available to everyone in what promises to be the most exciting biennale yet.
What is so amazing about this year’s architectural biennale is the way each pavilion plays with space to create less of a ‘look and see’ environment and more of a conversation piece that leads one to interact and mingle with those who are also there to explore.
Some of the standout pavilions not to be missed include the Turkish Pavilion, the British Pavilion and of course, The Italian Pavilion and National Pavilion. Since Venice was constructed over a major waterway, the biennale reflects this and seeks to draw out the beauty and mysticism of nature within and without each and every pavilion and architectural space.
The beauty and wonder of space are open to everyone and this 21st century eclectic wonderland of architectural confection promises no less than a spectacular presentation of endless events and shows in dance, cinema and art as well. For more information, visit the website La Biennale Di Venezia or venicebiennale.
The form in presentation is what may take your breath away with the Pavilions at the Giardini and Arsenale as well as the center of Venice.
