Hans Ulrich Obrist’s work is characterised by interdisciplinary thinking and regular collaboration with reputed architects. Swiss-born Obrist (45), who lives in London, is among the foremost groundbreaking curators in the world today. «I am looking forward to design for the first time in my life a pavilion at the International Architecture Exhibition in Venice 2014», he explained.

One of his best-known works is «Interview Project», in which he interviewed personalities from the art world over a period of many years. He has also realised numerous international projects that explore key issues of architecture and urbanism – among them joint projects with Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas.

Hans Ulrich Obrist will again encounter Koolhaas, a Pritzker Prize winner, at the 2014 International Architecture Exhibition in Venice, since Koolhaas has been made responsible for the Biennale’s main exhibition at Venice’s Arsenale. Under the heading of «Absorbing Modernity 1914-2014», its focus will be on attitudes towards classical modern architecture since the First World War in various cultural contexts. It is due to open in June next year and to last – for the first time equal in length to the International Art Exhibition – until December 2014.

«Salon Suisse» again held in 2014

The Swiss Arts Council plans to run its «Salon Suisse» – inaugurated at the previous International Architecture Exhibition – again in 2014. Events held at its location in Palazzo Trevisan degli Ulivi are meant to provide an open platform for exchange between specialists and art and architecture lovers, and to offer a backdrop for casual discussions in a relaxed atmosphere. Another aim of «Salon Suisse» at the Biennale is to raise international awareness of the Swiss arts and architecture scenes.