EXHIBITION DURING The 57th International Art Exhibition
11 May – 30 July, 2017
“Palazzo Molin a San Basegio”, Adriatica
Venezia – Fondamenta Zattere Al Ponte Longo 1412
The Antarctic Pavilion brings together international artists to explore present and future models of living with Antarctica. The Pavilion’s status as a ‘[trans]National Pavilion’ constitutes a polemical engagement with the Bienn
ale’s nationally over-determined structure: a quasi-institutional claim to represent a transnational sphere, out of line with the festival’s politics of territorial representation. More importantly, it points to Antarctica as a Giardini of sorts, in which the sovereignty-obsessed cultural ambitions relevant two centuries ago still seem to hold sway – for the worse. Despite all the kilometres of ground untrodden by human foot, mountains unnamed and creatures unknown, Antarctica is a cultural space. The projects featured in this pavilion are testaments to the Antarctic community that would yet know itself – and the continent – in ways transcending national-scientific missions. Among enthusiasts and unbuilt schemes dwells the promise of a new Antarctic man. The Antarctic Pavilion is initiated by the artist Alexander Ponomarev. Drawing upon his background in nautical engineering and early career as a submariner, Ponomarev’s work chiefly invokes journeys at sea and remote terrain – contexts in which to explore the relationship between illusion and reality, the utility of art, and the shifting tides of personal and cultural history. Ponomarev is a regular visitor to Antarctica, and has realized numerous projects on the continent. The Antarctic Pavilion draws upon his longstanding interest in Antarctica’s potential as a cultural field. The Antarctic Pavilion is a European interface platform for the Antarctic Biennale. Vernissage: 11 May, 5-9pm. HOW TO GET THERE:
Palazzo Molin is located head further down the long waterfront promenade of Zattere, the south part of the city of Venice. The building is accessible both by private boat (yacht and GT) and public boats. It is far just 1,2 km by walking from Piazzale Roma (car parking) and 1,5 km from Santa Lucia Railway Station. Address: Dorsoduro 1410, 1411, 1412 Fondamenta delle Zattere al Ponte Longo Public transport / Vaporetto stops: S.Basilio (lines 61 / 62 / 29) Zattere (lines 51 / 52 / 2)
May 12 - 6 pm
June-July 2 - 6 pm
Day off - Tuesday
