14th Mercosul Biennial with works of art

14th Mercosul Biennial is at the Pop Center with works that celebrate art, inclusion and transformation
The 14th edition of the Mercosul Biennial will also occupy the Pop Center, in the Historic Center of Porto Alegre, with the exhibition “The lights go out, but the party doesn’t end”. The space, known for its intense popular circulation and accessible commerce, will host an exhibition of the Biennial for the first time, with works by artists Ismael Monticelli and Fátima Rodrigo.

The initiative aims to expand access to art and reinforce its role as an instrument of social transformation. For Elaine Deboni, CEO of the Pop Center, the choice of the location for the Biennial recognizes a greater value. “The Pop Center is about social and professional inclusion. That’s why I work hard to bring art, because art is a way to change people’s minds. Art is the second divine creation. People who are artists can transform reality into dreams”, highlighted Elaine.

In Ismael Monticelli's work, images are transformed into neon lights and displayed in empty boxes, giving new meaning to symbols of everyday life and evoking reflections on a time of transition and uncertainty. Fátima Rodrigo presents an installation that critically investigates the principles and legacies of modernism in Latin America, as well as issues of gender identity in this context, using mixed media and interactive elements to engage the public.

For Elaine, the Bienal's action in the space highlights the importance of including art in people's daily lives. “Art really isn't part of 90% of people's daily lives, and that has nothing to do with having or not having money — that's education. We should take children to museums and exhibitions. Schools also need to put this more on the agenda. I know adults who have money and walk past art and don't see it.”

The partnership between Pop Center and the Bienal is no coincidence. The place already houses three artistic residencies and was recognized with the Açorianos Trophy, precisely for bringing art to a space considered unusual. “If we really want social transformation and professional inclusion of people, we have to look at the Pop Center, because here is a cradle of entrepreneurs, of people with new dreams — and also of clients. It's like a diamond that is coming out,” says Elaine.

The Biennial exhibition at the Pop Center has free admission and can be visited from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 7 pm.

SERVICE
Event: 14th Mercosul Biennial
Date: March 27 to June 1, 2025
Time: Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 7 pm
Location: Pop Center (Av. Júlio de Castilhos, 235, Historic Center)
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