contraband

To celebrate 25 years of Venice Agendas appearing at every one of the Venice Biennales. We are looking back at some of the projects and themes that have headlined the project during this time.

In light of current world events and the main theme of Venice Biennale, Everyone is a foreigner we return to the 2017 theme of Crossing Boundaries, with the title Contraband.

The landscape over the last 25 years has of course changed, we live now in a more volatile time. With wars and occupations covering the globe, where Human Right abuses continue to go unchecked the world is a more dangerous place. A long with this actual danger there is an existential danger where free speech is also under attack. But free speech is just the external manifestation of free thinking and when a door is closed on our speech, it is closed on our thinking and our imagination.

This edition we are proud to work with Dover Arts Development, an arts organisation at the forefront and seafront of many issues to do with gateways, trading posts, migration and refugees. And we will be looking at these issues in relationship with Venice that is also the gateway between the west and east.Contraband: Unveiling Venice Agendas' New Project

Introduction

Today, we are thrilled to share with you an exciting new project from Venice Agendas called "Contraband." This ambitious endeavor aims to push the boundaries of creativity, challenge societal norms, and explore the unexplored aspects of art within the captivating backdrop of Venice. With Contraband, Venice Agendas intends to create an immersive experience that will captivate and challenge audiences in unprecedented ways.

Concept

Contraband is an art project like no other. It sets out to redefine the traditional notion of contraband by exploring the clandestine, illicit, and transgressive in the realm of art. The project aims to examine the fascinating relationship between art, censorship, and forbidden narratives, unveiling stories that have been silenced or suppressed.

Collaborations with Prohibited Artists

As part of Contraband, Venice Agendas has partnered with a handpicked selection of artists whose work embodies the spirit of subversion and challenges the status quo. These artists have created provocative, groundbreaking pieces that have occasionally faced censorship or been deemed too contentious for public consumption.
Through an immersive exhibition, Contraband will showcase these controversial artworks, providing a platform for dialogue and debate. The aim is to ignite conversations surrounding the limits of artistic expression, the role of censorship, and the importance of freedom of speech in today's society.

Interactive Experiences

Contraband doesn't stop at displaying artwork; it offers an immersive experience that encourages active participation from the audience. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with the artists, attend thought-provoking panel discussions, workshops, and interactive performances. These experiences aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complex nature of contraband art.

The Setting: Venice

What better city to host Contraband than Venice? Long associated with groundbreaking art, cultural vibrancy, and historical controversy, Venice provides the perfect backdrop for this audacious project. The city's labyrinthine streets, its history of forbidden secrets, and its unique architectural grandeur will enhance the overall experience, making Contraband a truly unforgettable event.

Pushing Boundaries and Inspiring Change

Contraband goes beyond the realm of art, aiming to inspire change both within the art world and beyond. By challenging societal norms, confronting censorship, and redefining artistic boundaries, this project fosters a sense of liberation and encourages individuals and communities to question established narratives and structures.
Through Contraband, Venice Agendas seeks to empower emerging artists, engage diverse audiences, and provoke conversations that ultimately contribute to a more inclusive and open society.

Conclusion

Contraband promises to be a groundbreaking project that will challenge conventions, push boundaries, and ignite conversations. By bringing together the forbidden, the transgressive, and the visionary within the captivating framework of Venice, Venice Agendas aims to create an immersive experience that will leave a lasting impact on all who participate.
Prepare to embark on a journey that celebrates the power of art, questions censorship, and redefines what we consider acceptable. Contraband is more than just an art project; it is a call to challenge the status quo and embrace the transformative power of artistic expression.