A legacy of artistic excellence
Since 1954, Australia has been a proud participant in the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious and celebrated international platforms for contemporary visual art and architecture. Australia’s involvement in this event is a testament to its commitment to innovation, creativity, and the promotion of its contemporary art scene on the global stage.
Showcasing diverse artistic practices
Each Australia Pavilion presentation at the Venice Biennale reflects the dynamic and diverse nature of the country’s artistic practices, offering a platform for both established and early career artists. Australia’s continued participation in the Biennale underscores the country’s position within the global contemporary art world, where diverse voices come together to explore the boundaries of creativity.
Creative Australia’s role
Creative Australia, as the commissioner and producer of the Australia Pavilion, plays a crucial role in presenting Australian talent and ideas to the world. By supporting Australian artists to exhibit at this landmark event, Creative Australia not only upholds the nation’s vibrant artistic legacy but also fosters a spirit of dialogue, discovery and creativity.
Venice programs
Our investment in Australia’s creative future through participation in the Venice Biennale is strengthened through a suite of programs:
- National Participation in the Art Biennale – commissioning artists and curators to exhibit in the Australia Pavilion under National Participation at the International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia.
- Architecture Biennale presentation – supporting the Australian Institute of Architects in producing Australia’s contribution to the Architecture Biennale.
- Development opportunities – offering development opportunities for Australian creative and cultural practitioners to engage with the Biennale and expand their networks.
- Philanthropy and strategic partnerships – facilitating co-investment and strategic partnerships to secure philanthropic support and cross-industry engagement for Australia’s participation at the Venice Biennale.
- Support for Australian artists in the Main Exhibition – backing Australian artists selected by the La Biennale-appointed curator to exhibit within the Main Exhibition.
Australia Pavilion
The 2015 opening of the award-winning Australia Pavilion designed by Denton Corker Marshall celebrated the first 21st century pavilion in the Giardini della Biennale. The Australia Pavilion provides an elegant home to showcase the best of Australian art and architecture. It is one of only 29 national pavilions within the Biennale gardens, all built at different periods by various countries.
The development of the Australia Pavilion was made possible through a public-private partnership led by the Australia Council (now Creative Australia) with the then Commissioner Simon Mordant AM. Creative Australia owns the Australia Pavilion.
The original Australia Pavilion, designed by Philip Cox, opened in 1988 and hosted 22 artists during its lifetime.
