The 60th Venice Biennale: A Celebration of Artistic Migration and Decolonization

The prestigious Venice Biennale, the granddaddy of international contemporary art exhibitions, is back for its 60th edition in 2024. Held between April 20th and November 24th, this highly anticipated event promises a vibrant exploration of artistic expression through the lens of migration and decolonization.

A Focus on the Global Movement of Artists

Curated by renowned Brazilian art critic Adriano Pedrosa, the central theme for the 2024 Biennale Arte is “artists who are themselves foreigners, immigrants, expatriates, diasporic, émigrés, exiled, or refugees.” This focus on artists who have traversed borders, both physical and cultural, reflects a world in constant flux. Pedrosa highlights the ever-present movement of artists throughout history, but with a particular emphasis on those who have bridged the gap between the Global South and the Global North.

Ticket Biennale di Venezia

Fresh Perspectives Take Center Stage

The 60th Biennale promises a refreshing perspective, prioritizing artists who haven’t previously participated in the International Exhibition. This allows for a broader spectrum of voices and artistic traditions to be showcased. While some featured artists may have been recognized in National Pavilions or Collateral Events, the 2024 Biennale offers a platform for a global conversation on art through a new lens.

Exploring the Giardini and Arsenale

The Venice Biennale takes place across two main venues: the Giardini, a sprawling park dotted with national pavilions, and the Arsenale, a former shipyard reconverted into a vast exhibition space. Both locations will be brimming with installations, performances, and artworks that explore the complexities of migration, displacement, and the evolving narratives of identity.

Planning Your Visit to the 60th Venice Biennale

The Venice Biennale is a must-see for any contemporary art enthusiast. Here are some key details to consider when planning your visit:

  • Dates: April 20th – November 24th, 2024 (with a pre-opening on April 17th, 18th, and 19th)
  • Location: Venice, Italy (Giardini and Arsenale)
  • Opening Hours: April 20th – September 30th: 11 am – 7 pm (last admission 6:45 pm). October 1st – November 24th: 10 am – 6 pm (last admission 5:45 pm). Extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays at the Arsenale until 8 pm (last admission 7:45 pm). Closed Mondays except for April 22nd, June 17th, July 22nd, September 2nd and 30th, and November 18th.

Ticket Biennale di Venezia

Beyond the Biennale: Exploring Venice

While the Biennale is the main attraction, Venice itself is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace, or a romantic gondola ride through the city’s canals.

The 60th Venice Biennale promises to be a landmark event, sparking important conversations about the role of art in a globalized world. With its focus on the experiences of migrant and displaced artists, the Biennale offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of artistic expression in challenging and reshaping narratives.

For more information: