What exactly is a biennale, and why do they matter in the art world? In this solo episode, I’m breaking down one of the art world’s most iconic and contested formats, from its origins at the very first Venice Biennale in 1895 to the sprawling, politically charged mega-exhibitions we know today.

In the episode, we move through the history of how biennales evolved from nationalist showcases into curator-led events grappling with postcolonial discourse, identity politics, and climate change. I then touch on some of the most influential editions across Venice, São Paulo, Kassel, and beyond. We get into the controversies, including the the Dana Schutz and Open Casket debate at the 2017 Whitney Biennial, the board resignation that followed artist protests in 2019, and the antisemitism scandal that overshadowed Documenta 15 in 2022.

Sources:

• Paintings from the Venice Biennale – Listory

• In 1895, the 1st Venice Biennale faces its first censorship scandal – Arte Brasileiros

• The Dana Schutz Emmett Till painting controversy at the Whitney Biennial – The Guardian

• Warren Kanders resigns from Whitney Museum board – The New York Times

• Statement by Taring Padi on dismantling People's Justice – Documenta Fifteen

  Who Killed the Independent Curator? – Frieze

  
  

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  ABOUT THE HOST:

  I am an Austrian-American art historian, curator, and writer. I obtained my BA in History of Art at University College London and my MA in Arts Administration and Cultural Policy at Goldsmiths, University of London. My specializations are in contemporary art and the contemporary art market along with accessibility, engagement, and the demystification of the professional art sector.

  
  

  SOCIALS:

  Instagram⁠ @alexandrasteinacker https://www.instagram.com/alexandrasteinacker

  
  

  and LinkedIn at ⁠Alexandra Steinacker-Clark⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-steinacker/

  
  

  This episode is produced at Synergy https://synergy.tech/the-clubhouse/the-podcast-studio/

  
  

  COVER ART: Lisa Schrofner a.k.a Liser⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.liser-art.com/ and Luca Laurence https://www.graffitikunst.at/

  
  

  Research and Creative Assistant: Iris Epstein