As part of the 13th International Architecture Exhibition of la Biennale di Venezia, the Collateral Event Traces of Centuries & Future Steps presented 57 architects from 6 continents, representing 26 countries, brought together in an extraordinary combination with each other as well as with the Chinese artist Ying Tianqi. Traces of Centuries & Future Steps showcades developments and thoughts in international architecture. An international group of architects with different cultural backgrounds and who are in different stages of their careers, i.e. established architects next to architects whose works might be less known. What they have in common is their dedication to architecture in the broadest sense of their profession. “Architecture” is therefore highlighted from unusual points of view. The exhibition was organised by the Global Art Affairs Foundation. This exhibition was held at Venice’s prestigious Palazzo Bembo, by Rialto Bridge on Canal Grande. The exhibition shows works, concepts, research results, dreams and ideas, either site-specific, specially made for this exhibition or coming directly from the architect’s studio. The 32 rooms in Palazzo Bembo presented a wide range of individual approaches in strong statements, covering a broad variety of media, such as videos, models, photos, entire room installations, sound – and light installations and even a bridge over the courtyard.

Traces of Centuries & Future Steps aimed to enlarge the spectator’s awareness of their own personal existence as a human being within a specific space and time. For example, on the first floor of Palazzo Bembo, the Chinese artist Ying Tianqi presented “Traces of Centuries”. In his profoundly perceptive Oriental way, he places history in a contemporary context, which enables to imagine beyond space and time. Ying Tianqi’s presentation was co-curated by Wang Lin and Valeria Iacovelli. On the second floor of Palazzo Bembo, amongst others, the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki with the Administrative Committee of Zhengdong New District presented “Future Steps” by showing an installation of the Urban Development Project of Zhengzhou city in China.