Set against the timeless backdrop of Venice, the Venice Architecture Biennale 2023 is preparing to open its doors to the public on May 20th. This year’s showcase, expertly curated by the Ghanaian-Scottish architect and scholar Lesley Lokko, has been aptly titled “The Laboratory of the Future”.
Multifaceted Exploration of Architectural Ideas
Running until November 26th, the six-part exhibition will unfurl across the city, each segment hosting an array of participants reflecting on Lokko’s central theme. Far from a singular narrative, the Laboratory of the Future is designed as a diverse tapestry of stories echoing the plethora of ideas, contexts, aspirations, and meanings that resonate with the challenges of our era.
Challenging Architectural Tradition for the Present
In constructing the Biennale, Lokko delved into the historical role of architectural exhibitions, seeking to breathe relevance into a timeless format. The journey into the Laboratory of the Future begins at the Central Pavilion in the Giardini, the inaugural site of the Biennale since its debut in 1895 and home to 29 international pavilions.
A City-wide Exploration of Architectural Possibilities
From the Central Pavilion, visitors are led to the Arsenale, a former industrial hub turned exhibition space, where two sections titled “Dangerous Liaisons” and “Curator’s Special Projects” await. Adding to the Biennale’s international appeal, 64 National Participations will showcase their unique architectural perspectives in pavilions scattered throughout the Giardini, Arsenale, and Venice’s historic center.
As we step into Lokko’s “Laboratory of the Future”, we invite you to join us on this architectural exploration of what tomorrow might hold.