Qatar at the Venice Biennale

DATE

28.05.2025

The project was entrusted to Franco-Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh, known for her sensitive approach to context and the memory of place. Her proposal for the Qatari pavilion is rooted in a poetic interpretation of the Arab nation’s natural landscapes, integrating sustainable materials and an architecture that harmonizes with the Venetian environment while maintaining a strong identity. This initiative positions Qatar as one of the few non-European countries with a permanent presence in the Giardini, the historic heart of the Biennale.

Ghotmeh’s design is articulated around the concept of “common ground,” a metaphor that links Bedouin tradition with contemporary global challenges such as climate change and the need to rethink the way we inhabit the planet. The building stands out for its lightweight structure, built using recyclable materials, and for its open spatial layout that encourages interaction. Through this work, the architect not only explores the possibilities of sustainable architecture, but also reflects on the notion of heritage, incorporating references to both Qatari vernacular architecture and the urban dynamics of Venice.

In addition to the new Giardini pavilion, Qatar also maintains a second exhibition space this year within the Fuoribiennale circuit, specifically at the Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti, one of the most iconic palaces on the Grand Canal. This venue, which hosted an exhibition by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in the previous edition, now presents a new showcase promoted by Qatar Museums. The exhibition features a selection of architectural, artistic, and research projects that reflect the country’s cultural growth and its vision for the future. This dual presence firmly establishes Qatar as a key player in the international dialogue on architecture and contemporary art.

Qatar’s cultural strategy—based on a combination of architectural excellence, cultural diplomacy, and international visibility—finds in the Venice Biennale a privileged platform. With the involvement of Lina Ghotmeh and the selection of iconic venues like the Giardini and Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti, Qatar not only demonstrates its cultural production capacity but also its commitment to actively engaging in the debates shaping the present and future of human habitation.

MARCH VALENCIA | ARQUITECTURA Y DISEÑO

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