Common Ground

For the 13th International Architecture Exhibition in Venice under the theme Common Ground, Günther Vogt’s contribution takes the city itself as its point of departure. It explores public space as commons, caught between resource and use. Surveys of locals and tourists across Venetian public areas capture subjective perceptions of this ‘resource’ and its everyday rules.

These findings translate into kiosk vernacular: an ‘un-common Venice’ presented via newspapers, postcards, and quirky kiosk wares for passersby. As the city’s smallest structure, the kiosk reaches the broadest public and sparks dialogue between Venice and the Biennale. It stands freely open to all, rooted in urban common ground.