The renowned International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia stands as a pinnacle of contemporary art globally, embodying a celebration of artistic expression that transcends borders. As the main partner, Swatch proudly unveils the participation of six exceptionally talented former artists-in-residence from the Swatch Art Peace Hotel in the eagerly awaited 60th edition of this prestigious event. The theme, “Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners everywhere,” serves as a profound wellspring of inspiration for the occasion.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the boundless creativity of these artists showcased at the Swatch Faces 2024 exhibition within the Arsenale.
This meticulously curated space will feature an eclectic array of contemporary artworks, urging viewers to explore new realms and languages of artistic expression. Here are the former artists-in-residence slated to exhibit their remarkable creations:
Maya Gelfman, The Shanghai Series: Hailing from Israel, Maya Gelfman has embraced a nomadic lifestyle since 2017. A versatile artist, she seamlessly intertwines painting, installation, and street art in her practice. Having been in residence at the Swatch Art Peace Hotel in 2023, Gelfman will present a selection of four paintings from The Shanghai Series. These vibrant pieces, including “Amidst the comings and goings of life #1” and “Inhabiting the currents of life #1,” pulsate with the energetic essence of Shanghai’s bustling streets.
Juan Pablo Chipe, La Escultura Project: Originating from Mexico, Juan Pablo Chipe is a visual artist whose expertise lies in video art and 2D animations. His nine-year endeavor, the La Escultura Project, intricately fuses Mexican and US cultures into sculptural form, accompanied by a series of collages crafted from recycled materials. Expect his presentations to be visually stimulating and thought-provoking explorations of cultural intersections.
Leo Chiachio & Daniel Giannone, Comechifonnes #1 and Comechifonnes #4: Known as Chiachio & Giannone, this dynamic duo specializes in applied arts, particularly embroidery and textile mosaics, with a focus on social engagement. Their installation, featuring fabrics, embroidery, and quilts, beckons viewers into a dialogue with both the artwork and the artists themselves.
Luo Bi, Flower of Abundance: From China, Luo Bi is a digital artist who merges computer-generated animations with observations of the natural world. His presentation, Flower of Abundance, invites viewers into a virtual realm teeming with 3D botanical wonders, challenging perceptions of nature and technology.
Jiannan Wu, Feb. News, Destiny is all, Cheers: Jiannan Wu, a visual artist based in New York City, explores themes of media authenticity and the cycle of life in his mixed-media pieces. His works, including “Feb. News” and “Destiny is all,” offer poignant reflections on contemporary society’s dynamics.
As a steadfast patron of contemporary art, Swatch has continuously supported emerging and established artists. Through initiatives like the Swatch Art Peace Hotel, Swatch reaffirms its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the art world.
From the surreal to the abstract, the diverse works of these six artists promise to enthrall and inspire audiences, continuing the rich tradition of artistic excellence at La Biennale di Venezia.
For more information, visit Swatch.com.