Venice Biennale Portraits
“Venice Biennale Portrait” is a series of interviews conceived and conducted by Mara Sartore, introducing some of the most anticipated figures in the contemporary art scene on the occasion of the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. The series began before the inauguration of “In Minor Keys” under the title “Awaiting Venice Biennale 2026”. In both its phases, collectors, curators, artists, and directors engage in conversations exploring their roles, upcoming projects, and their relationship with Venice.
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Venice Biennale Portraits
Interviews
Venice Biennale Portraits: Amin Jaffer
In this conversation, Mara Sartore meets Amin Jaffer, curator of the Indian Pavilion, in his home in Venice to discuss the vision behind the national participation at the 2026 Biennale, “Geographies of Distance, Remembering Home”. Drawing from his own experience within the Indian diaspora, Jaffer reflects on migration, memory, and the emotional meaning of home through the work of five artists whose installations explore textiles, architecture, performance and landscape. The conversation also touches on Venice as a place of inspiration and cultural exchange, addressing the city’s fragile balance between international cultural growth and the preservation of its local community and identity.
Interviews
Protected: Venice Biennale Portrait: Cristiana Collu
In this conversation, Mara Sartore meets Cristiana Collu, Director of the Fondazione Querini Stampalia, to reflect on Venice and the evolving role of cultural institutions within the city. Taking place against the backdrop of the Biennale Arte, the discussion focuses on Collu’s vision for the foundation and its ongoing transformation through “The Dreamer”, a project that reimagines the museum’s historic spaces as a dynamic narrative between memory, imagination, and civic responsibility.
Awaiting Venice Biennale 2026
Interviews
Awaiting Venice Biennale 2026: David Hrankovic
David Hrankovic – Last year is a very good illustration of what we do at SMAC.
As I mentioned, we had...
Interviews
Awaiting Venice Biennale 2026: Mario Codognato
Mario Codognato – I would like this to become a place that is alive all year round, as far as logistical...
Interviews
Awaiting Venice Biennale 2026: Nicoletta Fiorucci
NF: I see a continuous flow of arrivals: new foundations, new people choosing to live here, individuals...
Interviews
Venice Biennale Portrait: Erwin Wurm
EW – Exactly. That’s what makes this exhibition special. It’s not just about showing works –...
