Manifesta purposely strives to keep its distance from what are often seen as the dominant centres of artistic production, instead seeking fresh and fertile terrain for the mapping of a new cultural topography.

Manifesta 13 Marseille was one of the only international biennials to take place during the global pandemic COVID-19, the biennial ended earlier than planned due to the second national lockdown

Elmo Vermijs, NL

Elmo Vermijs explores how art, architecture and land(scape) intersect. He delves into the intricate relationships between space, materials and regenerative processes to offer new perspectives on contemporary challenges. His research explores the dynamic interplay between human and non-human entities, Western societal systems and local materials within their historical, political and environmental contexts. Collaborating closely with local stakeholders, Vermijs integrates material research with cutting-edge environmental insights in his creative process. His works, often accompanied by publications, workshops and dialogues, invite visitors to engage physically with the installation and its materials. Through this interaction, viewers are prompted to reflect on a spectrum of social issues and to reimagine their relationship with the environment.