The build-up commences
Veronica reports from the streets of Venice as the build-up to the 53rd International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia 2009, begins in earnest.
Spring is in the air. The Giardini di Castello, site of the Italian pavilion and 34 other national pavilions, just before its transformation for the 53rd International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia 2009
In anticipation of the Biennale, Venetians slowly begin to creep out of winter, dribbling into the narrow streets of the city from their houses. The main squares have sprung to life, and the markets swarm with a renewed endeavour and palpable spring buzz.
Noticeably, the number of tourists has increased - walking the narrower streets has become difficult - and the hum of voices both foreign and familiar harmonise in a multilingual chorus of excitement.
As people pass La Chiesa della Maddalena (which is the site of New Zealand artist Judy Millar’s installation) curiosity compels them to take a step closer. Inside the Masonic church is a saintly sense of cleanliness and perfection, and the Church’s white circular interior and gigantic, grand dome heavily influence the aura of immaculate sanctity. Judy Millar’s work could not have found a more apposite space within which to exhibit: her installation of massive, interrogative strength and unstoppable transcendence will wrap the Church’s interior and soar dome-wards with exquisite levity – it will truly be a sight to behold.
Palazzo Claudio Buziol (the site of Francis Upritchard’s installation) is currently surrounded by small local markets, each luring people to get a glimpse of what is an extremely impressive palace. Francis Upritchard’s work of imaginary landscapes is hinted at by the very entrance to the Palazzo, its refined ironwork and fairytale garden inviting you to participate in a magical moment in time.
I have been overhearing conversations about dates, works and artists participating in the Biennale by locals and tourists alike these past weeks. Restoration to pavements and buildings are in full swing, all set to be completed for June. Posters will be mounted shortly and boats will soon become laden with interesting pieces of disassembled art works. Just the other day I witnessed a giant nose being accompanied down the Grand Canal!
Everywhere on this artistic island the energy of the event heightens and I am certain that, come June, I will be part of a memorable and breathtaking event. Join my colleagues and myself, the ten New Zealand Attendants, as we access all areas to bring you the feel and the excitement of the art, the publicity, the people and the chatter over the five months of the 53rd International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, the world’s most important display of contemporary art.
