There are few places in the world where art and national identity are as intertwined as at the Venice Biennale. It remains unique, not only because it is the oldest international art exhibition and takes place in such an extraordinary setting, but because its collection of national pavilions encourages pluralism, diversity, and the surprising.

Set within the beautiful Giardini, the pavilions proclaim their origins with an exaggerated air of national stereotyping, and in this talk, Andrea Rose shows how these distinctive buildings have lent piquancy and purpose to the art shown in them. From Mondrian in the limpid Dutch Pavilion to Hans Haake in the German Pavilion, where in 1993 the artist exhibited his critique of national history by smashing up the floor.

Transitioning from an association of western nations at the end of the nineteenth century to the global phenomenon it is today, Andrea Rose describes how the Biennale has evolved, its relationship to the city, and its importance in an increasingly polarized world.

Andrea Rose was Director of Visual Arts and Strategic Programmes at the British Council from 1994 to 2014 . During this period she was responsible for Britain’s representation at Venice Biennale, commissioning and curating exhibitions by Leon Kossoff, Rachel Whiteread, Gary Hume, Chris Ofili, Tracey Emin, Gilbert & George, Steve McQueen, Mark Wallinger, Jeremy Deller and Sarah Lucas among others.

She is currently on the Board of Directors of the Burlington Magazine, a Trustee of Pallant House Gallery and Deputy Chair of Koestler Arts.