A space for experimentation and imagination
To imagine the Europe of tomorrow is not an easy task. It is neither a question of beginning from a blank page nor following a preconceived narrative. Rather, it is about adding footnotes and creating spaces for imagination.
The European Pavilion programme’s ambition was to facilitate a space that encourages experimentation and reflection on Europe. In collaboration with partners, it supported a European network of arts and cultural organizations that, through artistic and educational projects, offered the opportunity to explore ideas for a future Europe. Together we wanted to question and visualize what Europe is and, above all, what it can become tomorrow. We wanted to tell stories, imagine, speculate. We wanted to question and debate. And what better place than a pavilion for such a venture? The pavilion, which has taken on many functions and forms throughout history, has the quality to remain open to new definitions and meanings – much like Europe itself.
The European Pavilion programme was developed throughout 2020, in conversation with art professionals and foundation representatives: read more about our first brainstorm meeting. It was implemented in collaboration with, and with the support of, key partners, including the Camargo Foundation, the Kultura Nova Foundation and Fondazione CRT. As part of our 2020 Culture of Solidarity fund, we also supported a number of organisations whose projects resonated with the vision and aspiration of the Pavilion. To build a European Pavilion is a complex endeavour. That is why, throughout 2020, ECF organised a series of conversations with personalities from the arts and culture, which are edited together as a series of podcasts.
The European Pavilion was a multi-annual program that welcomed many new partners over the years.
