Guinea's inaugural Venice Biennale pavilion transforms San Servolo with sound, material and postcolonial resonance

Guinea is participating for the first time in the 61st International Art Exhibition at La Biennale di Venezia, unveiling its first National Pavilion titled 'Le Son de l'Art: l'Écho de la Matière' on San Servolo island. Curated by Carlo Stragapede and themed 'In Minor Keys' by Koyo Kouoh, this pavilion explores sound, silence, and the implications of presence. It features works from Guinean artists Rougui Barry, Fatoumata Kouyaté, and Sékou Oumar Thiam, as well as international creators. The exhibition creates an immersive experience with materials like wood and fabric, reflecting Guinea's Simandou 2040 initiative. Emphasizing intimacy instead of grandiosity, it invites visitors to engage through listening and reflects art's importance in cultural dialogue.