(Italy) – At the 2025 edition of the Biennale Architettura in Venice, lighting brand Vibia was selected to participate in the Italian Pavilion, located within the historic Arsenale complex. The installation is part of the 19th International Architecture Exhibition, curated by Carlo Ratti under the theme “Intelligens. Naturale. Artificiale. Collettiva.”    

This year’s Biennale brings conversations on sustainability and climate action, showcasing work from around 750 contributors. The Italian Pavilion, titled “Terrae Aquae. Italy and the Intelligence of the Sea,” is curated by architect and academic Guendalina Salimei. The exhibition explores the interplay between architecture, science, and culture, examining Italy’s past, present, and future through the lens of its maritime identity.

The Italian Pavilion is housed in the Tese delle Vergini, a 16th-century hall within the Arsenale, which was once the largest industrial production centre of the pre-modern world. Vibia’s lighting installation within this space is designed to interact with the existing architecture, drawing attention to original structural elements such as walls, ceilings and support beams.

The lighting approach is aimed at enhancing the atmospheric qualities of the venue through a combination of light and shadow. Different types of luminaires are installed throughout the exhibition to guide visitors and subtly highlight works on display.

Upon entering the space, visitors encounter two suspended Array luminaires by Umut Yamac, which produce a soft downward glow. Further along, visitors experience Circus Solo spotlights by Antoni Arola, which provide a focused lighting on selected photographic works, while leaving the surrounding areas in semi-darkness.

The upper level is illuminated by North Floor lamps, by Arik Levy, which delineate a pathway between display tables with directional beams of light. In the final area of the pavilion, Flamingo lamps, also designed by Arola, are suspended above the exhibition space, contributing a warm glow intended to mirror the installation’s opening sequence.

The overall lighting scheme aims to create a sculptural presence through the exhibition, integrating seamlessly into the architecture of the pavilion and creating a sensory experience that supports the themes of the broader exhibition.

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