Manifesta 15

From 8th September to 24th November, Barcelona and 11 surrounding cities will transform into the vibrant heart of European contemporary art with Manifesta 15 Barcelona Metropolitana . This biennial is not just an art event but a platform for bold ideas, engaging citizens to take action towards a socio-ecological transition in Catalonia. Manifesta promises to highlight the social, political, and cultural spirit of Barcelona’s metropolitan area like never before...

?? WHAT IS MANIFESTA?

Mission: Manifesta fosters positive social change in Europe by connecting culture and society through art, architecture, and urbanism, involving local communities. Its nomadic nature encourages fresh perspectives, empowering citizens and artists to rethink communication and life.

Approach: Every two years, European cities bid to host Manifesta, exploring local cultural and socio-political contexts. The biennial facilitates collaboration between artists, urbanists, and communities, addressing societal challenges. Each program includes exhibitions, performances, and workshops that reflect real-world issues.

Goals of Manifesta 15: To be an interdisciplinary platform for cultural creation and social change, decentralising culture by reshaping the relationship between art, society, and the environment. It seeks to enhance Barcelona’s metropolitan vision, creating a lasting cultural map while rethinking the concepts of 'centre' and 'periphery' to foster connected communities. The initiative aims to position Barcelona as a leader in art and education, expanding cultural rights and ensuring equal access for all, while maintaining an ongoing dialogue with both local communities and international cultural producers.

?? MANIFESTA 15 - BARCELONA METROPOLITANA

Barcelona Metropolitana was selected to host Manifesta 15, offering a chance to unite the region through contemporary art with a focus on sustainability. The city's urban development challenges, such as gentrification and land use for industrial expansion, make it a compelling host.

Barcelona’s bid is part of its Cultural Rights Plan, which launched in 2021 with 100 projects and a €68.7 million budget, aiming to expand cultural access and influence city growth. Manifesta 15 promises to spotlight these pressing urban issues through art.

AGENDA

Manifesta 15 brings art to life in public spaces, with exhibitions popping up in squares, abandoned factories, and neighbourhoods beyond the city center. There are 161 events and 103 installations still to go, all spread across 12 cities and 16 unique venues - Four of which are opening to the public for the first time (The Three Chimneys, Casa Gomis, GustavoGili and La Caldereria).

Focus Weeks: Manifesta 15 introduces Focus Weeks , where each city’s cultural heritage is highlighted weekly. The sustainably designed Manifesta 15 Mobile Venue, built by IAAC students, will travel to city squares, hosting community events and activities in collaboration with local municipalities.

Manifesta 15+: This program enriches cultural experiences in participating cities, led by Local Artistic Representatives. It showcases the region’s diversity through exhibitions, festivals, concerts, discussions, and tours, bringing Barcelona Metropolitana’s cultural richness to life during the biennale.

? GET INVOLVED

Manifesta 15 invites you to dive into the conversation! Whether through public art, engaging discussions, or exploring captivating installations, locals and visitors alike can join this dynamic cultural movement. Blending art, activism, and the future of urban life, Manifesta 15 transforms Barcelona’s metropolitan area into a creative playground for change. Ready to be part of this exciting journey? Don’t miss your chance to experience it firsthand!

TICKETS

Manifesta 15 will have aN all-inclusive ticket price of €15, valid for the entire duration of the biennial at the three leading venues: Casa Gomis, the Monastery of Sant Cugat, and the Three Chimneys. Admission to all other venues is free.?