Biennale Arte 2017 closes with record 615,000 visitors, up 23% from 2015

The 57th Venice Biennale, titled 'Viva Arte Viva' and curated by Christine Macel, closed on November 26, 2017, after a six-month run. President Paolo Baratta announced final attendance figures of 615,000 visitors, a 23% increase over the 2015 edition. For nine consecutive weeks, weekly attendance exceeded 23,000, countering criticism that the event primarily attracts wealthy yacht owners. The Biennale attracted a significant young audience: 31% of visitors were under 26, including 35,000 students through the Educational program. Macel and Baratta emphasized the exhibition's focus on accessibility, dialogue, and 'active leisure,' with 68 'Tavole Aperte' (open tables) involving 87 artists and 2,100 participants. Daily video features on exhibiting artists further enhanced public engagement. Baratta described the Biennale as a 'fencing gym' that arms the public against conformity and cliché. The event was built around a triad of spectator, art, and artist, complementing guiding concepts of freedom, independence, and research. Baratta downplayed the importance of records, stressing that visitor growth stems from audience autonomy and the institution's refusal to advertise or sell booths. The next edition is scheduled for 2019.