Ocean Space hosted Iraq's first ever participation in the “International Architecture Exhibition of the Venice Biennale” in the Annex Room, with a project by artist Rashad Salim entitled “Ark Re-imagined: The Expeditionary Pavilion”.

The "Ark Re-imagined" project returns to the origins of Iraq’s architectural legacy, celebrating the vernacular architecture, watercraft, and ecology of the Tigris-Euphrates river system. Rashad Salim’s expeditionary art practice engages artisans and interdisciplinary co-researchers to explore traditional boatbuilding, architecture and craft practices, now on the brink of extinction after decades of conflict, climate change and most recently COVID-19. The "Ark for Iraq" programme develops the contemporary role of this heritage as a source of knowledge, healing, and inspiration through direct engagement with the land and waters.

"The Expeditionary Pavilion" is not only an exhibition but an encounter with the city of Venice, its people and environs. A parallel expedition in Basra and the Marshlands of Iraq highlights common ground between the two places, exploring their vernacular architecture, watercraft, ecology, and shared challenges.

Exhibitor: Rashad Salim

Commissioner: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, Iraq

Curator: Safina Projects

Pavilion Pilots: Community Jameel & CULTURUNNERS

Hosted at TBA21–Academy’s Ocean Space