Manifesta 12's 'Palermo Atlas' and the Crisis of the International Biennial Format

In Palermo, Sicily, the 2018 edition of the traveling European biennial, Manifesta, introduced its 'Palermo Atlas', a project developed by architect Rem Koolhaas's OMA agency. This urban study is designed to turn the biennial into a sustainable catalyst for social transformation. According to Manifesta director Hedwig Fijen, the event aims to revitalize Palermo's identity. Addressing issues of migration and climate change, this biennial aligns with themes from Documenta 14, curated by Adam Szymczyk, which initially took place in Athens before moving to Kassel. Creative mediators for Manifesta 12 include Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli from OMA, filmmaker Bregtje van der Haak, architect Andrés Jaque, and curator Mirjam Varadinis. Previous editions encountered challenges: the 2006 Nicosia edition was canceled, the St Petersburg edition in 2014 faced allegations of supporting Putin's regime, and the 2016 Zurich edition received mixed reviews. The 2017 Venice Biennale, titled 'Viva Arte Viva' and curated by Christine Macel, lasts six and a half months. The 1968 Venice Biennale was labeled the 'Biennale of the police' due to artist boycotts. An article published online on July 17, 2017, raises concerns about the future of large international exhibitions as they navigate issues of social engagement and political legitimacy.