For the 58th Biennale in Venice we have designed the Identity, all marketing communications, online, press, signage, exhibition graphics for the main exhibitions in the Arsenale and the Giardini, signage, three catalogue volumes including ‘the Guide’ and merchandising including the famous Illy coffee cups and the Special edition Swatch for the main sponsors.

The design is informed by the title and curatorial theme of the main exhibition curated by Ralph Rugoff. May You Live in Interesting Times references an alleged Chinese curse, made first public in a speech by British MP Austin Chamberlain in 1936 in the light of the looming world war. The fact that this curse has not been proven to be true draws a parallel to fake news and ‘alternative facts’ we are experiencing today.

The ambiguity of this ‘curse’ is reflected in the curatorial approach to ask all chosen artists to exhibit two works, one for each venue, offering two unique ‘alternative views’. In the identity we play with coloured layers set in various perspectives, even the title tilts back and forth. This play of multi-directional elements makes the viewer slightly confused and uneasy.

The vibrant and multiplying colours are taken from Venice’s sandstone architecture, its spectacular sunsets and the blue laguna.

Photographs by Phillip Ebeling and La Biennale di Venezia