On the occasion of the 14th International Architecture Biennale in Venice, curated by
Rem Koolhaas, Lisson Gallery and Berengo Foundation present an exhibition of
sculpture and installation that addresses the complex spheres of the public realm and
the built environment.
The Latin term genius loci, originally referring to the presiding or guardian deity of a
land, is now used to describe the particular essence and unique qualities of a place.
Beyond the museum and gallery walls, public art can help define the character of its
location by functioning harmoniously or in active dialogue with the architecture or
landscape it inhabits.
As an experienced commissioner of large-scale contemporary art, Lisson Gallery is
exhibiting major art works by 14 internationally renowned artists, both inside and
outside the historic Venetian Palazzo Franchetti. The exhibition includes models,
sculptures, drawings and projects by artists including Ai Weiwei, Daniel Buren, Dan
Graham, Shirazeh Houshiary, Anish Kapoor, and Lee Ufan, all of whom have made
significant contributions to art in the public domain through works that complement
or challenge their surroundings.
The exhibition, Genius Loci – Spirit of Place will also include a specially designed zone
by critically acclaimed architects Carmody Groarke, documenting some of the most
ground-breaking public art commissions of the late 20th and early 21st century.
The exhibition is curated by Greg Hilty, Curatorial Director, Lisson Gallery. The
initiative is conceived by Patrizia Spadafora, Director of Berengo Foundation.
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am – 6pm (closed Mondays)
Location: Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti, S. Marco, 2842, 30124 Venice
Two panel discussions including artists, architects and public art commissioners,
chaired by Greg Hilty, will take place on:
Saturday 31 May 10am – 12pm at Lisson Gallery, London
Friday 6 June 10am – 12pm at Palazzo Franchetti, Venice
The exhibition will open to the press at 10am on Friday 6 June before opening to the
public on Saturday 7 June.