Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — For the first time ever, the Philippines will be participating in the Venice Architecture Bienalle, an international architectural exhibition held every two years in Italy’s famed city.
The milestone was reached through the efforts of the Philippine Art Venice Biennale (PAVB) — a collaborative effort of the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Office of Sen. Loren Legarda. The three groups were also responsible for the country’s return to the 56th Venice Art Bienalle after a 51-year absence.
The 15th undertaking of the event will take place from May 28 to November 27, 2016.
The PAVB is calling for curatorial proposals for a Philippine Pavilion from Filipino architects, curators, historians, ecological activists, and professionals from other fields.
“For me, architecture must not only reveal intellect or technical deftness; it should also be about spirit. I look forward to curatorial proposals that are able to communicate our realities as a nation,” said Legarda in a statement.
“This platform will give voice to our people, how we overcome our struggles and use our distinctive resources through architecture.”
Curatorial proposals should be submitted on or before October 7, 2015. The submissions will be deliberated upon by a panel of jurors, and the selected proposal will be announced on October 15. The winner will be realized as the Philippine Pavilion during the Venice exhibit.
According to Leagarda’s office consultation meetings will be held in Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao as part of the selection process for engaged discussion and interaction among organizers and the public.
Open call proposal forms and details can be accessed at the www.philartvenicebiennale.com.
