VISITING ITALY
The Venice Art Biennale
May 2024
In May 2024, I finally visited the Venice Biennale, something that had been on my travel wish list for years. Italy has always been a favorite destination of mine, but for some reason, Venice had never made it onto the itinerary. I suspect this was partly because of its reputation as a major tourist hotspot, which can make the city feel crowded and overwhelming. This time, however, me and my friend were lucky enough to find a small boutique hotel near the design district, close enough to the main attractions but just far enough away to enjoy some quiet.
Venice is a city that invites wandering. Its narrow streets, countless bridges, and ever-present canals make every walk feel like a small discovery. Our hotel was conveniently located near a waterbus stop, which took us straight to the Biennale’s main sites at the Arsenale and Giardini. Because we visited in early May, we experienced the city at a slower, more local pace. Mornings began with cappuccinos at a nearby café, where the only other patrons seemed to be Venetians starting their day.
The Biennale was really interesting and enjoyable to experience. Some exhibitions stood out more than others and stayed with me, but what made it especially memorable was seeing so many different visions and expressions. Contemporary art feels different in Venice, a city with so much history in its buildings, streets, and canals. That contrast between the old surroundings and the modern artworks made everything feel more meaningful and engaging, adding an extra layer to each installation.
Venice Biennale Art Giardini
Venice Biennale Art Arsenale
