ReCall & Response – A Procession of Rhythm, Memory, and Celebration is organised in collaboration with studio caj.e, Morgan State University, Tuskegee University, and Clemson University. SOMBRA Solstice is a presentation by the creators of SOMBRA, developed by Metadecor in collaboration with MVRDV, Airshade Technologies, the AMOLF Institute, ARUP, and Alumet. Together, these events invite the public to explore themes of cultural identity, sustainability, and innovation in architecture.

ReCall & Response – A Procession of Rhythm, Memory, and Celebration
17:00 - 20:00

ECC Italy is proud to present ReCall & Response, a unique installation born from the collaboration between studio caj.e, Morgan State University, Tuskegee University, and Clemson University. The project, on display at the Giardini della Marinaressa as part of the Time Space Existence architecture biennial, weaves together key themes such as cultural exchange, sustainability, and global solidarity through an architectural reinterpretation of musical instruments. The installation aims to become a powerful tool to remember, reclaim, and celebrate centuries of vibrant African culture.
On the evening of 21 June, during Art Night Venezia, the event ReCall & Response – A Procession of Rhythm, Memory, and Celebration will bring the installation to life. Kicking off the event will be a musical performance by the Morgan State University Marching Band, led by charismatic Senegalese drummer Moulaye Niang. The band will begin at the Giardini vaporetto stop, proceed along the tree-lined avenue, cross Viale Garibaldi, and conclude their performance at the Giardini della Marinaressa. This will be followed by a presentation by The Space Makers and a traditional ceremonial libation, offering the audience a deep immersion into the rich and captivating African culture, celebrating history, spirituality, and community connection.

SOMBRA Solstice

The renowned studio Metadecor, in collaboration with MVRDV, Airshade Technologies, the AMOLF Institute, ARUP, and Alumet, is taking part in the seventh edition of the Time Space Existence architecture biennial with the educational and experimental project SOMBRA. This installation dynamically responds to sunlight and shade, creating a shifting dialogue between architecture and the natural environment. The pavilion's standout feature lies in its passive ingenuity—its ability to generate shade by directly responding to the sun’s presence, adapting to its surroundings and offering a tangible example of sustainable architecture.
On the occasion of the summer solstice on 21 June, the creators of SOMBRA will host a special presentation at the Giardini della Marinaressa, exploring the core themes of the project and underlining the critical importance of zero-impact architecture in today’s world.

17:12 - 17:52 - SOFT ROBOTICS & SOMBRA
A presentation about the applications of soft robotics in the SOMBRA
pavilion, with Professor Bas Overvelde and PhD-student Sergio Picella of AMOLF Institute, Nikola Znaor of Airshade Technologies and senior engineer Sander van Leeuwen of Metadecor. SOMBRA showcases air-powered dynamic sun shading. The use of soft robotics (non-electric) technology in facades has its world premiere in SOMBRA. Meet the people that developed this unique application and hear what the future has in stock.

19:12 - 20:12 - MEET THE MAKERS OF SOMBRA
A presentation about the design and workings of SOMBRA pavilion by the architects, engineers and researchers of Metadecor, Airshade Technologies, AMOLF Institute. SOMBRA showcases air-powered dynamic sun shading. With short pecha-kucha style presentations by the makers. Discussion and aperitivi afterwards.

Explore the full lineup of SOMBRA events for the day.