We will be in Italy in April 2024, and have been wondering whether to include Venice. We could be there during the days of the preview of Biennale ( April 17-19), or we could go the week before.
Any ideas on how busy it would be at that time, and whether there is much to see during the previews? I have looked at the website, but I think is too early to find ticket ideas etc.
I must admit, I'm not very up on contemporary art, but it does seem to perhaps be a unique opportunity to experience. Would love to hear other's experience of it
Posted by
West Coast
434 posts
I was in Venice in October a few years ago and made a point to see the art exhibits. It wasn’t extra busy around the art or around town then but might be different at the start of it. Even if modern art is not your favorite, there is usually something interesting to look at. There were also a number of extra free exhibits or art around town, including in or near a couple churches that I remember. They even had music events associated with it. Weird, contemporary music, but it was an interesting experience. I say go check it out!
Posted by
San Diego, California, USA
1026 posts
The Biennale is always changing - one year there was a bunch of very large and modern art in the Dodge's Palace but this year it was architecture so we incidentally saw a few public exhibits but we didn't travel to Arsenal to see the core of the exhibit. If you're worried about crowds nothing will affect them in Venice, but I wouldn't change your schedule if art is not the focus of your interest.
As always with art your mileage will vary but to me lucking into rare events or temporary exhibits always really feels special when traveling. Everyone has seen site "X" but have they seen it filled with dancers or as a pop-up art gallery? To me that makes that moment stand out as an experience unique to your visit.
I love Venice, have a great trip!
=Tod
Posted by
USA
353 posts
Just a comment that the Biennale rotates every year been art and architecture. It’s not random.
Different curators are chosen for each year and the themes are different. I wouldn’t worry about not being up on contemporary artists because a lot of interpretation and information is provided.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7745 posts
The Venice Art Biennale was on my lifetime list, and 2017 did not disappoint. Had multi-day tickets, which were essential.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
2594 posts
I've never been, but I would definitely go - once in a lifetime sort of thing. If you do attend, I was just reminded by my local art museum's sponsorship of the USA representative, Jeffrey Gibson. He does some interesting work, it would be amazing to see it in Venice venue: https://portlandartmuseum.org/blog/jeffrey-gibson-to-represent-united-states-at-60th-venice-biennale-in-2024/#:~:text=Jeffrey%20Gibson%20to%20represent%20United,in%202024%20%2D%20Portland%20Art%20Museum
Posted by
Washington DC
27608 posts
To avoid potential confusion: The timing of the art/architecture alternation changed due to a COVID hiatus. It was art in 2022 and architecture in 2023.
Posted by
OP
Calgary, AB, Canada
545 posts
Thank you for all your thoughts. Tim, do you have any idea when the tickets usually go on sale?
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7745 posts
Sorry, I didn't buy it myself. Except for July/ August, I think a month or two in advance is probably enough. I was sorry to miss the associated Dance Biennale, but that's second to art at multiple locations around the city.
Posted by
67 posts
I've gone three times to the art biennale and plan to go again. But, hey, I like contemporary art. If you're interested, why not give it a go?