The 57th edition of the Venice Biennale opened to select members of the press today, with a preview that lasts until May 12. Below, a brief look at the main exhibition—”Viva Arte Viva,” curated by Christine Macel—and some of the action at the national pavilions.
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In the entryway to "Viva Arte Viva" is a colorful piece by Sam Gilliam, Yves Klein Blue, from 2015.
John Waters, Study Art Sign (for Prestige or Spite), 2007, in "Viva Arte Viva."
Phyllida Barlow, who is representing Great Britain this year at the Biennale, outside her pavilion.
Olafur Eliasson at the Biennale.
In the last room of the United States Pavilion is Mark Bradford's silent video, Niagara, 2005.
McArthur Binion with one of his paintings in "Viva Arte Viva."
A Biennale-goer taking photos outside the caged dogs on the exterior of the German pavilion by Anne Imhof.
Works by Kiki Smith at "Viva Arte Viva."
Klaus Biesenbach flanked by Marwan paintings, in "Viva Arte Viva."
Work by Geoffrey Farmer, representing Canada.
Curator Susanne Pfeffer in front of the German Pavilion with works by Anne Imhof.
Takahiro Iwasaki's installation Turn Upside Down, it's a Forest at the Japanese Pavilion.
The exterior of the Korean Pavilion is a piece by Cody Choi titled Venetian Rhapsody, the Power of Bluff, 2017.
Inside the Swiss Pavilion, featuring work by Carol Bove.
Dirk Braeckman hanging out next to one of his photographs in the Belgian Pavilion.
Police patrolling the Giardini grounds on opening day.
Tate Director Nicholas Serota taking in the British Pavilion by Phyllida Barlow.