Through the eyes of Miel Straits Times cartoonist Miel goes to the prestigious to check out what is new in the Art World. He jostles with festivalgoers in their bid to experience cutting-edge works and tell the world rst-hand what the movers and shakers of the art and culture industries have to offer in Venice.

The Venice Biennale is a biyearly event that has been held since 1895. The weather is ne when I arrive in Venice. I’m here because I received inaugurated its national pavilion in 2001. One of the most an invite to the four-day preview before the Venice Biennale opens to the notable presentations was by multidisciplinary artist Zai Kuning. public. But rst things rst – I have to lug my luggage up and down His Dapunta Hyang: Transmission Of Knowledge (2017) was well received 14 bridges! A punishing, albeit scenic route to my Airbnb accommodation. critically. Other Singaporean artists who have been featured at the Singapore Pavilion include and (2001), (2003), Lim Tzay Chuen (2005), Jason Lim, Vincent Leow and (2007).

The unit I stay in is on the third level, up 32 steps. It starts raining from the next day. The icy rain, however, does not deter the art An apt conclusion to the long trudge across 14 bridges crowd from queueing up on the rst day of the preview. earlier. You really have to suffer for your art.

I take a picture of what looks like a Banksy. I am almost tempted Art exhibitions are scattered around the island too. Artworks are displayed inside churches to call it a RiverBank-sy, but the graf ti is by a canal. turned into exhibition spaces. At the Venice Biennale, art is religion too.