MEETING OF MINDS

Our curation of the most notable pavilions at the 17th Venice Architecture Biennale

- TINA THAKRAR

“How will we live together?” asks the 17 th Venice Architecture Biennale. The question is pertinent, especially in light of the Coronavirus pandemic, which had architecture lovers across the globe expressing their disappointment over the cancellation of this landmark event in 2020. The return of the biennale, with a very relevant theme to boot, has brought out a renewed vigour in the exhibitors and visitors. The biennale is currently on display; the designated event dates are May 22 to November 21, 2021. This edition has been curated by architect and scholar Hashim Sarkis.

“It may indeed be a coincidence that the theme was proposed a few months before the pandemic. However, many reasons initially led us to ask this question – the intensifying climate crisis, massive population displacements, political instabilities around the world, and growing racial, social, and economic inequalities, among others. As politics continue to divide and isolate, we can offer alternative ways of living together through architecture,” says Sarkis.

As with every year, the highlight of the event are the national pavilions. There are 61 national participations this year, every one of them showcasing their interpretations of the theme, and melding it with history, geography, global trends, culture and communities.

In this annual curation, we’ve picked some of the standout pavilions that dig deep into the meaning of architecture, and its relevance and potential to offer solutions to some of our most pressing global issues. These pavilions also have a common striking quality of celebrating the indomitable human spirit and ability to live sustainably and conscientiously.

CON-NECT-ED-NESS BY DENMARK