The European Cultural Center invites an international group of artists, from established to emerging professionals, along with galleries, universities and other cultural institutions. The 2024 edition of Personal Structures will draw attention to current issues, from a global vision focused on the environment and social realities, compared to more intimate and genuine reflections.

The ECC is a cultural organization born in 2002 with the aim of promoting cultural projects worldwide. Since 2011, the ECC Italy has been active in Venice and is dedicated to the creation of international art and architecture exhibitions, conferences, publications, video and education programs along with other initiatives. The center operates as Partner Venue and host to several national pavilions and official events of La Biennale di Venezia.

A Common Thread that Binds Us

In every corner of the globe, across diverse cultures and backgrounds, humanity shares a fundamental journey—the cycle of life. It is a profound odyssey of creation, existence, and transition, weaving a universal tapestry that unites us all. This journey, this common thread, intricately entwines through the fabric of our collective humanity, transcending borders, languages, and beliefs. As we embark upon this timeless voyage, A Common Thread That Binds Us delves deeper into the profound connections that define our shared human experience. Within the exhibition, rich artistic expressions unfold, spanning diverse mediums and narratives that guide us through the entangled landscapes of time, space, and existence.

Alison Croney Moses skillfully crafts evocative wooden sculptural Shells, suspended like cocoons from the ceiling, urging reflection on human origination. Introducing beauty through the diverse characteristics—round, smooth, angled, thin, sharp, adorned with colors reminiscent of cream, brown sugar, dark chocolate, complex and rich, layered with skin, flesh, nerves, bones—Moses' work celebrates the complexity of life. The organic forms and textures, fluidly explore time and space, while depicting the transformative beginning of life’s journey. Created from the same mold but different woods, the shells unveil intricate details upon closer inspection, of fibers stretched, pulled apart, and sanded to expose layers underneath. Despite their perfect appearance from a distance, they convey the essence of shaping identity as life emerges.

Existence is revealed through Rites of Passage 7 by Maria-Lana Queen and portrayed in Adana Tillman's Revel of Life. Queen's paintings explore intricate layers of identity, individuality, and cultural experiences; shaping personal characteristics with a vibrant palette and bold brushstrokes. Her work serves as a visual ideographic script, meticulously incorporating coded details into complex compositions. Through a rich visual narrative, the diptych invites us to travel across the canvases, reflecting on one's lineage, ancestors, and faith drawing inspiration from the visually stunning mosaics and symbols. Tillman's quilted panel infuses the space with dynamic energy and expresses a passion for life. Figurative movements captured within the hand-dyed fabric and embroidered elements, depict the richness in the different characteristics we embody. Regardless of cultural differences, Tillman's work exemplifies the universal essence and greatness of the human experience.

Exhilaration, methodically created in goldpoint by D. Lammie-Hanson, captures moments of joy and reflection with delicate gold-wired strokes on wooden panels painted in deep indigo. The artist's reinterpretation of metalpoint is inspired by Da Vinci's technique, which dates back to the 15th & 16th centuries. Accentuated by indigo, Newton's seventh color in the visible spectrum, symbolizes evolution, inviting reflections on the fleeting nature of life and ultimately embracing the beauty of impermanence. Lammie-Hanson’s intricate lines, balanced composition, and subtle interplay of light and shadow, evokes a profound sense of interconnectedness, transcending boundaries of time and space.

The exhibition highlights art's lasting impact in fostering empathy, understanding, and cross-cultural connections. Art offers solace, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of humanity.