The Venice Biennale just got a whole lot more captivating with the opening of San Giacomo, a lagoon island transformed by Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo and her husband into an art and sustainability haven. This venue, a former military site with a rich history spanning at least 1,000 years, now showcases a unique blend of art, history, and environmental consciousness. The inauguration was a star-studded affair, with Sandretto herself greeting the likes of Sheikha Al-Mayassa Al Thani and Diane von Furstenberg, and the island's art installations left a lasting impression.
What makes San Giacomo truly special is its focus on sustainability and the creative use of space. The island's history as a military site and its transformation into an art venue is a fascinating journey. Sandretto's husband, Agostino, and his company Asja, which specializes in renewable energy, are integral to the project's self-sustaining nature. This intersection of biomuseology and conservation is a rare example in Italy, making San Giacomo a unique destination for art enthusiasts and sustainability advocates alike.
The exhibitions are a testament to Sandretto's commitment to supporting artists and their creations. The Sandretto collection, featuring works by Michael Armitage, Sarah Lucas, Victor Man, and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, is on display alongside site-specific installations. Pamela Rosenkranz's shocking pink tree, Claire Fontaine'sPatriarchy = CO2, and Goshka Macuga's Gonogo are just a few of the captivating pieces that adorn the island. The solo exhibition by Matt Copson, organized by Hans Ulrich Obrist, adds another layer of intrigue with its fanfare and airborne sculptures.
The island's history as a monastery, vineyard, and military site adds depth to the experience. The transformation of these spaces into art venues and the integration of sustainable practices make San Giacomo a dream come true for Sandretto. The free access to exhibitions, initially limited to biennales and guided tours, with plans for a vaporetto stop, ensures that this dream is accessible to all. San Giacomo is a testament to the power of art and sustainability, and it's a place that dreams are made of.
