Gian Maria Tosatti's Critique of the 2017 Venice Biennale

Gian Maria Tosatti offers a critical review of the 2017 Venice Biennale, 'Viva Arte Viva', curated by Christine Macel. He praises the Italian Pavilion, curated by Cecilia Alemani, featuring artists Roberto Cuoghi and Giorgio Andreotta Calò, as a powerful and vertiginous experience that restores Italy's presence in contemporary art. Tosatti argues that the international exhibition lacks curatorial rhythm and coherence, describing it as 'illegible' and akin to a salon rather than a curated show. He contrasts this with the national pavilions of Kosovo, Croatia, and Georgia, which he finds more compelling, particularly Vajiko Chachkhiani's installation 'Living dogs among dead lions'. Tosatti also discusses Damien Hirst's 'Treasures from the Wreck of the Unbelievable' at the Pinault Foundation and Jan Fabre's show at the Abbey of San Gregorio, calling them legendary interventions that address contemporary anxieties. He concludes that the Biennale signals the end of large group exhibitions and calls for a more focused approach with fewer artists.