Biennale Arte 2019 Launches Meetings on Art Program with Performances and Talks

The 58th Venice Biennale, titled "May You Live In Interesting Times" and curated by Ralph Rugoff, has launched its Meetings on Art series of talks, performances, and debates. Running throughout the six-month exhibition, the program aims to explore the biennale's themes. Performances by Invernomuto, Paul Maheke, Nkisi, Nástio Mosquito, and Victoria Sin opened during press and preview days, commissioned by Arts Council England and co-produced by the Delfina Foundation and the Biennale. A final performance weekend is scheduled for November 22-24 at the Giardini, Teatro alle Tese, and Teatro Piccolo dell'Arsenale. The talks include a June 14 conversation between artist Lara Favaretto and art historian Angela Vettese. Favaretto's installation "Thinking Head" at the Central Pavilion features a steam cloud, and related "Clandestine Talks"—closed-door roundtables with recorded discussions—will be held in a bunker-like space in the Arsenale. In September, Rugoff moderates a roundtable with Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster, Tomás Saraceno, Margaret Wertheim, and Anicka Yi. October features President Baratta celebrating Felicita Bevilacqua La Masa. The program concludes in November with a conversation between the President and Director and a major performance lineup.