The Pavilion of the Holy See at this year's Venice Biennale is set to explore the theme of listening through a collection of sound works commissioned from an array of talented artists and musicians. Notable contributors include Brian Eno, FKA Twigs, Jim Jarmusch, Patti Smith, Devonté Hynes, Laraaji, Kali Malone, Caterina Barbieri, and Terry Riley. This innovative exhibition aims to create a "sonic prayer," drawing inspiration from the 12th-century abbess and composer, Saint Hildegard of Bingen.
Under the evocative title "The Ear Is the Eye of the Soul," the works of 24 artists will be displayed across two locations: the Mystical Garden of the Discalced Carmelites in Venice's Cannaregio district, and the Complesso di Santa Maria Ausiliatrice in Castello. Curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist and Ben Vickers in collaboration with the Soundwalk Collective, this initiative was conceived in response to Koyo Kouoh's vision for the Biennale Arte 2026, encouraging a shift towards a quieter, more contemplative experience.
Visitors to the Mystical Garden can immerse themselves in a unique auditory experience, listening to sound pieces through headphones that resonate with Hildegard's chants, writings, and visionary imagery, interspersed with moments of silence. A press release highlights a significant quote from Pope Leo XIV: "The logic of algorithms tends to repeat what 'works,' but art opens up what is possible. Not everything has to be immediate or predictable."
The Complesso di Santa Maria Ausiliatrice will also feature a poignant tribute to the late German filmmaker and writer Alexander Kluge, whose final work will be showcased. Additionally, an archive will present Hildegardian texts, artist books by Ilda David, and innovative monastery architecture designed by Tatiana Bilbao Estudio.
In 2024, the Vatican Pavilion previously drew attention for its collaboration with Maurizio Cattelan at the Giudecca Women's Prison, where inmates contributed to the artistic process.
This year's exhibition also includes contributions from a diverse lineup of artists and musicians, such as Bhanu Kapil, Carminho, Holly Herndon & Mat Dryhurst, Kazu Makino, Meredith Monk, Moor Mother, Otobong Nkanga, Precious Okoyomon, Raúl Zurita, Suzanne Ciani, and the Benedictine Nuns of the Abbey of St. Hildegard Eibingen.