Engaging with the Future: A Conversation with Carlo Ratti, Curator of the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale
The Venice Architecture Biennale is one of the most prestigious events in the architectural world, and curating it is no small feat. Carlo Ratti, an esteemed Italian architect and academic, is at the helm of this monumental task for 2025. His innovative vision promises to push the boundaries of architecture amidst today’s pressing global challenges. Let’s dive into Ratti’s approach, motivations, and what to expect from this landmark exhibition.
The Challenge of Curating a Global Showcase
Curating the Venice Architecture Biennale is akin to orchestrating a grand symphony: thousands of participants from around the globe must come together in a unique and often chaotic setting. As Ratti prepares for this monumental event, he acknowledges the complexities involved. “It’s always crunch time,” he admits, referring to the immense logistical challenges of creating a cohesive exhibition from scratch.
A Bottom-Up Approach to Curation
Traditionally, Biennale curators follow a top-down model—selecting participants and shaping the narrative from their own perspective. However, Ratti is shaking things up by employing a bottom-up methodology. “We initiated a call for ideas that proved to be both daunting and revealing,” he explains. By reaching out to thousands of voices—including universities, mayors, and communities—Ratti aimed to tap into a rich vein of creativity and insight.
When discussing his interactions with various stakeholders, Ratti states, “It was a series of salons, from bonfire dinners in Dubai to early breakfasts in Switzerland,” emphasizing the collaborative spirit of this process.
Voices that Shape the Future
The insights gathered from these communities have significantly influenced the show’s theme: "Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective." According to Ratti, many architects communicate a desire for greater relevance in their communities. “They feel they’re not so impactful anymore,” he notes, reflecting a broader conversation around architecture’s role in society.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as another focal point. Ratti encourages architects to consider AI not merely as a shortcut but as a powerful tool. He envisions architecture learning from nature while also harnessing the strengths of technology. “We want to inform how we build new cities while enhancing the resilience of existing environments,” he elaborates, emphasizing a balanced perspective.
An Immersive Exhibition Experience
So, how will this theme manifest in the exhibition? Ratti outlines an engaging narrative that unfolds across the Biennale:
The Contextual Foundations: The exhibition begins with two provocative installations in the Arsenale space—one drawing inspiration from Marc-Antoine Laugier’s 18th-century architectural theories, representing nature as adversarial; the other immersing visitors in a surreal, flooded environment.
Transdisciplinary Collaborations: Following this, various projects spotlight how different disciplines—biology, physics, architectural thinking—interact to shape the future of architecture, particularly in light of global demographic shifts.
Biomimicry and Collective Intelligence: A focus on natural solutions demonstrates how modern architecture learns from life itself. Ratti highlights how old, vernacular designs still hold profound relevance today.
- Dreaming of Other Worlds: The final section, titled “Out,” explores the role of architects in space exploration, sparking innovative ideas for habitats beyond our planet.
Navigating Global Turbulence
The 2025 Venice Biennale unfolds against a backdrop of significant global challenges—climate change, AI, and even extraterrestrial colonization. Ratti acknowledges the difficulty of tackling these divisive topics. He stresses the urgency of adaptation and mitigation concerning climate change, asserting, “We must find ways to adapt to our changing environment.”
Moreover, Ratti highlights a compelling essay by renowned astronomer Martin Rees, who argues against the notion of “Planet B.” “Earth is the most conducive place for life,” Ratti quotes, reinforcing the idea that addressing our local realities is critical.
A Collaborative Future
As anticipation builds for this exciting Biennale, Ratti’s inclusive approach has fostered a vibrant dialogue among creators and communities alike. “By bringing everyone together, we can ignite inspiration,” he concludes, hinting at the rich collaborative network that will emerge from this event.
The 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale opens its doors on May 10, running through November 23, 2025, with pre-opening events slated for May 8 and 9. For more information, you can visit the official Biennale website.
As our world continues to evolve, exhibitions like this serve as vital touchstones, reminding us of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience in architecture. Exciting times lie ahead in Venice!
