Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the ICA helped present an ambitious, record-breaking international exhibition of the art of Simone Leigh. Ellen Matilda Poss Director Jill Medvedow interviews members of the curatorial department on their experiences. Speakers include Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and Barbara Lee Chief Curator Eva Respini and Curatorial Assistant Anni Pullagura.

In 2022, Leigh represented the United States at the 59th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, in a commission by the ICA in cooperation with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This historical presentation was groundbreaking, transforming the U.S. Pavilion’s 1930 neoclassical building with thatch roofing to resemble a West African palace, and surpassing all existing attendance records with more than half a million visitors.

Simone Leigh explores the artist’s highly disciplined production in ceramic, bronze, video, and installation, including works from her Venice Biennale presentation, providing audiences the opportunity to experience this landmark installation in Boston, Washington DC, and Los Angeles.

This free program included a discussion on the history of the Venice Biennale, the responsibility associated with being commissioners of the U.S. Pavilion, and the important work that is still to come.