Annual Program Statement for U.S. Presentation at International Art Biennales

Background
The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Cultural Programs Division (ECA/PE/C/CU) seeks to advance international understanding of American values by exposing foreign audiences to innovative and compelling works of art that reflect U.S. foreign policy and foster international dialogue on shared global challenges.

The International Art Biennale is a prestigious bi-annual festival organized by La Biennale di Venezia in Venice, Italy, featuring contemporary artists from around the world. The U.S. exhibition will be installed at the U.S. Pavilion, owned by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and operated by the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice.

Grant Details
The grant aims to conduct a three-day Preview/Inauguration (the Vernissage) of the Biennale prior to the official opening of the exhibition. It will also hold public outreach events and activities in/around Venice, develop robust exhibition-related educational and outreach activities including innovative virtual programming, and create a media campaign to broaden exposure with U.S. audiences.

Projects should aim to advance international understanding of American art, ideals, and values as well as demonstrate how art can effectively address shared global challenges.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include U.S.-based non-profit/non-governmental art, design, educational, and cultural organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Curators and artists proposed for representation must be U.S. citizens or have permanent resident status in the U.S.

Institutions of Higher Education must certify compliance with applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements. Non-U.S. entities or individuals are not eligible.

Period of Performance
The period of performance is 18 months per award.

Grant Value
The total value of the grant is up to $375,000 per biennale cycle, with individual awards anticipated at $375,000.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed at the U.S. Pavilion during the International Art Biennale in Venice, Italy.