The 54th International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale, which opened in early June, is in full swing. Directed by art historian and critic Bice Curiger, curator at the Kunsthaus Zürich, this year's exhibition "ILLUMInations/ILLUMInazioni" (see Worldwide 34050) centers around the theme of "light" while its title also emphasizes its geographical and socio-political scope. 

Many of the works presented at the exhibition were created specifically for the occasion by such artists as Monica Bonvicini, James Turrell, Dayanita Singh and Christopher Wool. Illumination in various senses of the word is also exemplified in works by a Venetian artist not usually included in contemporary art exhibitions: Jacopo Tintoretto. Artists often cite the dramatic lighting and experimental style of the Renaissance artist as a source of inspiration, and parallels can be drawn between his work and contemporary art in terms of challenging the conventions of the art trade.

As always, the Biennale also features many national presentations displayed in pavilions in the Giardini, the Arsenale and other locations throughout the city. The Italian Pavilion dedicates its space to a photography project titled "Real Venice," featuring images by such international figures as Nan Goldin and Mimmo Jodice (see Worldwide 74746), while performance art is the focus at the Russian Pavilion (see Worldwide 74757), and the drawings of Steven Shearer are featured at the Canadian Pavilion (see Worldwide 74759). Separate catalogues documenting some of the 88 national participations (the largest number since 2009) and the collateral events are expected to appear in the following months. The Biennale will continue through 27 November.