ARTISTIC DIRECTION ES DEVLIN
1–30 September 2026 - Venice, Fondazione Giorgio Cini


The fourth edition of Homo Faber Biennial invites you to explore the fundamental relationship between light, materials and the human hand.
Embark on a sensory journey through 15 immersive installations in the historic grounds and buildings of Fondazione Giorgio Cini and discover hundreds of handcrafted objects by artisans from around the world. Artistic Director Es Devlin’s unique staging illuminates the creativity and talent of the artisans, while live demonstrations, participatory workshops, culinary experiences and bespoke tours bring you even closer to craft.
Inspired by the archipelago of the Venetian lagoon, Es Devlin has created a narrative that unites the work of hundreds of individual craft artists from across the world – each an island of talent and skill within the wider waters of craftsmanship – on San Giorgio Maggiore. By manipulating light through the use of water, mirrors, movement and more, Devlin creates a journey that illuminates the world of craftsmanship, from the craft artists themselves to their workshops, tools, materials and the exquisite objects they create. Together, the exhibition spaces explore the relationship between light, materials, talent and creativity, revealing how master artisans can use this life-giving energy as a tool to create wonder and joy.
Acclaimed British artist and designer Es Devlin is one of the most luminous artists of her generation. Her monumental installations and kinetic performance sculptures have graced museums, galleries, theatres, opera houses and Olympic stadiums worldwide, while her Library of Light installation drew nearly 200,000 visitors to the Pinacoteca di Brera at Salone del Mobile in Milan in spring 2025.

400+ ARTISANS

800+ INSPIRING OBJECTS

70+ COUNTRIES

Bespoke gastronomic experiences of Homo Faber 2026 allow visitors to immerse themselves in Venice’s culinary craftsmanship and curate their day, from light meals and pop-up spaces to fine dining.

Homo Faber 2026 is an immersive experience. Besides the exhibition spaces, visitors can enjoy participatory craft workshops, take a private visit and interact with artisans working live on site.

Get closer to craftsmanship by experiencing live demonstrations by artisans working in the exhibition spaces. Watch them work, discover their techniques and ask them questions about their crafts.

Enjoy two participatory workshops presented by Mazda. Try your hand at Japanese crafts such as hand-carving a traditional wood stamp, known as hanko, or practising the craft of kintsugi, guided by master artisans.

Throughout the exhibition spaces on San Giorgio Maggiore Island, Young Ambassadors - 90 talented international students of craft and design selected by Homo Faber - will make the exhibition come alive for visitors in a personalised way

Bespoke gastronomic experiences of Homo Faber 2026 allow visitors to immerse themselves in Venice’s culinary craftsmanship and curate their day, from light meals and pop-up spaces to fine dining.

Homo Faber 2026 is an immersive experience. Besides the exhibition spaces, visitors can enjoy participatory craft workshops, take a private visit and interact with artisans working live on site.

Casa Sanlorenzo will host two exhibitions during Homo Faber 2026: one dedicated to master artisans from Venice and the Veneto, curated by Artemest, and another presenting craftspeople from Luxembourg, curated by De Mains De Maîtres Luxembourg.
Throughout September, the Venetian artisanal workshops of Homo Faber Guide will throw open their doors to the public, with suggested itineraries available online to help visitors plan their time.
Homo Faber 2026 will feature a programme of craft events and exhibitions related to Venice and its rich craft heritage, staged in beautiful locations.
The full programme will be unveiled in June 2026.





