The Oman Pavilion has announced details of its participation at the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, including the theme, curator and artists.
Located in the Palazzo Navagero, the Oman Pavilion will present an exhibition entitled Malath – Haven, responding to the biennial’s theme of Foreigners Everywhere. Drawing inspiration from Oman’s importance as a nexus of civilisations and ‘haven’ for sailors, traders and migrants, the exhibition celebrates the resilience, creativity and humanity of those who have sought refuge in Oman. The pavilion will feature immersive video installations, marble installations and multidisciplinary work.
The Oman Pavilion will be curated by Alia Al Farsi, the first Omani artist to exhibit officially at the Venice Biennale in 2017. Four artists have been selected to represent Oman: Adham Al Farsi, Ali Al Jabri, Essa Al Mufarji and Sarah Al Olaqi.
A member of the Oman Society of Fine Arts, Adham Al Farsi has been exhibiting work locally and internationally since 1997. Al Jabri is a sculptor whose works marry together wood and marble in a reflection on relationships and the human condition. Working across drawing, painting, sculpture and installations, Al Mufarji explores Omani heritage and Arabic calligraphy in his work. Al Olaqi is the founder of Cure8 Art Gallery in Muscat, and her work pays homage to rich cultural fabric of Oman.
Curated by Adriano Pedrosa, the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia will take place in the Central Pavilion (Giardini) and in the Arsenale from 20 April to 24 November 2024.