Elisabetta Di Maggio on Her Querini Stampalia Exhibition in Venice

Elisabetta Di Maggio discusses her exhibition at the Fondazione Querini Stampalia in Venice, curated by Chiara Bertola. The artist, who has long frequented the foundation's library and exhibition spaces, was challenged to create works for the historic museum's ornate rooms. She emphasizes the importance of finding 'white space' within oneself when working in non-neutral environments. Her delicate, handcrafted interventions, made from materials like porcelain and ivy leaves, engage with the museum's collection, including works by Giovanni Bellini. A dialogue with Giovanni Anselmo's nearby exhibition is noted, with one of his works displayed in the Portego alongside her installation. Di Maggio's ivy installation, both living and carved, explores themes of nature, time, and the Anthropocene, contrasting with the museum's frozen history. She also opens the secret 'armadio' room, merging her contemporary archive with the Querini family's historical objects. The exhibition runs during the 2017 Venice Biennale.