Georgia: With the support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Georgia, the National Pavilion of Georgia was opened on April 19 at the 60th International Exhibition of Modern Art Venice—Venice Biennale with the project “Art of Seeing—Conditions of Astronomy.”
The Georgian National Pavilion has earned a prestigious spot among the top seven pavilions recommended by European specialists. This recognition, a first in Georgia’s 20-year history at the Venice Biennale, is a testament to the Pavilion’s excellence.
The project is presented by the Center of Modern Art “Artvila Garikula” and the representative of Georgia at the Venice Biennale – artist Magda Guruli.
The exhibition’s concept responds to the 2024 Venice Biennale’s theme, “Global Modernism,” which reflects the modernist wave coming from the global south. The project’s concept is connected to the heritage of Georgian artist, poet, and writer Ilia Zdanevich (1894-1975) and aims to present his archival material in a new environment.
The project has carefully chosen a significant piece from Ilia Zdanevich’s archive – “Maximiliana”. This artistic book, a product of Zdanevich’s long-standing friendship and collaboration with German artist Max Ernst, was published in 1964. It delves into the research and life of German astronomer Wilhelm Tempel, who had a deep passion for lithography and astronomy.
This also means that, for the third year, an art residency for young professionals is being arranged in the National Pavilion of Georgia with the help of the Ministry of Culture.
This year, 14 young employees from the National Museum of Georgia will work in the National Pavilion of Georgia for seven months and will gain important experience.
The Ministry of Culture is the main supporter of the project. Supporters of the project are also Tbilisi City Hall, Rustavi City Hall, company “Magti”, “Silk Road Group” and European sponsors. The exhibition will be open until November 24, 2024
