THE JOURNAL
Bar Canale terrace at The Bauer hotel. Photograph by Mr Simon Watson, courtesy of Bauer Venezia
If you’re involved in the art world in any way shape or form, you will be well aware that the Venice Biennale kicks off this weekend, and you will likely already have a rigorous schedule of viewings, pasta-eating and Aperol spritz-drinking well and truly organised. However, for those less in the know, or for those of you wishing to visit Venice simply to enjoy its extra-curricular activities rather than the vast array of art at this storied event, which was founded in 1895, we decided to produce a quick guide on the city. Thankfully, one of our Style Council members – Mr Cristopher Canizares – bravely stepped forward to help us out. Given he is senior director of sales at Hauser & Wirth and a regular at the Biennale, he knows what he’s talking about. So, without further ado…
See Mr Cristopher Canizares’ Style Council recommendations here
Where to drink
Harry’s Bar
Exterior and bellinis at Harry’s Bar. Photographs courtesy of Cipriani
“You have to go to a classic Venetian haunt such as Harry’s Bar, Bar Canale at the Bauer. I would also recommend Naranzaria for an Aperol spritz sitting right on the Grand Canal, or else the more upscale Osteria Enoteca San Marco for a glass of wine and an appetizer in the late afternoon, when you’re feeling peckish and know that dinner is hours away.”
What to do
Arshile Gorky: 1904–1948 at the Venice Biennale
Mr Arshile Gorky, “Apple Orchard”, ca. 1943–46. Collezione Agnes Gund. Photograph by Ms Genevieve Hanson, courtesy of Ca’ Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art, Venice
“I’m excited to see the retrospective on Mr Arshile Gorky (the artist’s first in Italy) at Ca’ Pesaro, bringing together masterpieces from public and private collections around the world. A must-see at the Biennale is The American Pavilion, which will feature Mr Martin Puryear’s work and is expected to be outstanding. I’m also looking forward to see Ms Eva Rothschild’s work in the Irish Pavilion.”
Where to stay
Belmond Hotel Cipriani
Belmond Hotel Cipriani. Photograph courtesy of Belmond
“I love the Belmond hotel group: the Cipriani is one of its best. Located on an island in the lagoon and accessible only by private boat, this place is a Venetian paradise. A leisurely breakfast in the beautiful garden courtyard is a special treat.”
What to wear
“In Venice in general, and during the Biennale in particular, you can easily walk several miles a day, so comfort is crucial. I’d recommend a pair of great sneakers like these from Loro Piana, slim chinos from Incotex, a white polo from Sunspel or Z Zegna, and one of Boglioli’s fantastic unstructured blazers in cotton or linen. Effortless, breathable, and stylish without being overly dressy.”