Fertile Futures

27 January — 27 April 2024

A vital element for human and non-human species, as well as a metaphorical and emotional element, fresh water is simultaneously political and economic. Therefore, it is urgent to have a public discussion about the protection, management, and future of this natural resource. These are global issues with dramatic manifestations in different areas of the Portuguese territory.  

Fertile Futures is the Portuguese Official Representation at the Venice Biennale. Focusing on seven distinct hydrogeographies, it presents in Sinel de Cores palace the results of this multidisciplinary research, including five assemblies of thought, an international summer seminar and two publications.

The seven case studies exemplify the anthropocentric action on finite natural water resources, namely: in the Tâmega Basin; in the International Douro; in Middle Tejo; in the Alqueva Reservoir; in the Mira River; in Lagoa das Sete Cidades; and in Madeira's Streams.

In non-hierarchical cooperation between disciplines, generations and species, the exhibition displays a set of propositional models by young architects for a more sustainable tomorrow. Fertile Futures advocates the pertinence of architecture's role in designing a collaborative, decarbonised, and decolonised future, based on a heterogeneous approach, open to experimentation, dialogue, and joint reflection, focused on the reality of the Portuguese territory.

Tuesday to Saturday, 12h — 18h30

Guided Tours

A detailed exploration of the seven cores of water territories on the main floor. In Portuguese, for ages 16 and older, 5€ with registration: visitas@trienaldelisboa.com
On Saturdays: February 24, March 23 and April 27 at 12h

Other ways to see and explore
On Saturdays

We have a calendar of tours and workshops including an inclusive programme. From 60 to 90 minutes, the price is €5 with registration: visitas@trienaldelisboa.com

Relax tours for people with special needs
February 17 and April 20 at 15h

Tactile tour
March 16 at 12h

Families
Treasure Hunt
February 17 and April 20 at 15h

Water? Workshop: Kids build a device for collecting and distributing water on a city scale with the game
February 24, March 23 and April 27 at 15h

By booking

Schools
The educational service provides tours and two workshops – Treasure Hunt and Water? – for students from preschool to high school.
Tuesday to Friday, 10h—18h
Prices

Groups and universities
Guided tours for up to 30 people
Tuesday to Saturday, 12h—18h30, prices starting from €3

More information

Inaugural programme (27 January)

18h00 — Opening reception with the presence of the Director-General for the Arts, Fertile Futures curator and the Triennale Executive Director

18h30 — Guided tour by the curatorial team and participants

19h30 — Assembly of Thought, with the launch of the publication Fertile Futures — Volume 2, followed by a cocktail