Caravane Earth Foundation presents the unique bamboo installation “Majlis” in the gardens of the Abbazia di San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice for the Venice Biennale’s Architecture exhibition, up through November 21, 2021. The project is one of the official Collateral Events that reflect the exhibition’s theme of “How will we live together?”
Majlis is a word that originated in Pre-Islamic Arabia, meaning “council” or “gathering place.” Traditionally, a majlis is a place where people come together to discuss local events and issues, exchange news, socialise, and deepen their connection with each other. Inspired by nomadic architecture, “Majlis” is designed by the internationally acclaimed bamboo architects Simón Vélez and Stefana Simic.
The structure is installed in a wildflower garden at the Abbazia of San Giorgio Maggiore, designed by celebrated landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan, with plants from East and West. Once the Biennale is over, the garden will stay at the Abbazia as a gift to Venice. An exhibition inside the Abbey of San Giorgio will contextualize “Majlis,” featuring the people and materials involved in its construction.
