Biennale 2016: A World of Fragile Parts repositions copies as heritage protection tools

At the 2016 Venice Biennale, the special project 'A World of Fragile Parts' repositions reproductions of art and architecture as essential tools for cultural heritage protection. Housed in the Sala d'Armi at the Arsenale, the exhibition is part of the Applied Arts Pavilion, curated by Brendan Cormier, design curator at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. It marks a partnership between the Biennale and the V&A. The show challenges traditional notions of authenticity and kitsch, arguing that copies—from traditional plaster casts to 3D prints, resins, and polymers—can acquire distinct identities and serve as vital records in the face of threats like natural disasters, terrorism, deterioration, urbanization, and tourism pressure. A live 3D printing demonstration introduces the exhibition. The project is one of three special projects for the 2016 edition, aligning with the overarching curatorial vision of Biennale director Alejandro Aravena while maintaining its specific focus on concrete examples of reproduction.