The Venice Biennale: A many-headed beast that emerged from the (supposed) civilising, enlightened spirit of the Napoleonic Revolution.

Name: The Venice Biennale: A many-headed beast that emerged from the (supposed) civilising, enlightened spirit of the Napoleonic Revolution.
Start: 2026-07-01T00:00:00+10:00
End: 2026-07-01T23:59:59+10:00

Presented by Charlie Hall

A many-headed beast that emerged from the (supposed) civilising, enlightened spirit of the Napoleonic Revolution, Charlie will discuss the inception and concept of the Biennale in 1895 when cultural tourism events were springing up around Europe. Attracting a crowd of 224,000 visitors, and only pausing during the two world wars, the Venice Biennale has become a hugely significant art show, and has inspired hundreds of other biennales. Over 40 countries send representatives to their national ‘pavilions’. Charlie will also examine its influence in the Contemporary Art world over the last 130 years.

Dates and Locations

Wednesday 1 July 2026 Chatswood (NSW)

Wednesday 8 July Geelong (VIC)

Monday 13 July 2026 Murray River (NSW/VIC)

Click on your preferred location above for more details and to book tickets.