Elements of Architecture. Balcony. 14th International Architecture Exhibition, Fundamentals, la Biennale di Venezia. Photo by Francesco Galli. Courtesy of la Biennale di Venezia.

by  Joni Taylor

Venice International Architecture Biennale offers a plethora of interpretations on curator Rem Koolhaas’ theme.

At the opening press conference of the 2014 Venice International Architecture Biennale, Rem Koolhaas revealed that his accepting of the role of curator relied on the condition that he could deviate from the previous years’ models. He insisted that instead of presenting contemporary architects and their work, the 2014 Biennale would focus on historical research and invite all 65 participating countries to respond to one central theme. He likened his interpretation of this theme Absorbing Modernity 1914–2014 not to the global triumph of modernism, but more like a boxer, who feels the pain while absorbing the punches.

Entitled Fundamentals, the Biennale consisted of Absorbing Modernity 1914–2014 (The National Pavilions), Elements of Architecture (an examination of architecture’s core elements such as roofs, doors and windows) and Monditalia (devoted to the one theme of Italy and incorporating the other Biennales of art, dance, cinema and theatre).

The National Pavilions, each unique in their own architectural design and spread throughout the Giardini, Arsenale and Venice itself, offered a plethora of interpretations on Koolhaas’s theme. Some countries responded literally, offering insights into their own national responses to modernism, for better or worse....Continue Reading

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