About Us

The Vancouver Biennale (Biennale) is the world's open-air museum. A public exhibition is curated and installed biennially (every two years) featuring world-class international sculptures, new media and performance art.  The objective of the Biennale is to celebrate art in public spaces, inviting the entire community to experience the brightest new and world renowned talent in contemporary art. Through a diversity of artistic mediums, aesthetic sensibilities and cultural perspectives, an open dialogue about the art and the importance of art in public spaces begins.

The Biennale (Vancouver International Sculpture Biennale/Biennale Internationale de la Sculpture de Vancouver) is a non-profit corporation created pursuant to Part 2 of the Canada Corporations Act and a registered charity. It is funded primarily through the sale of art after each exhibition by Christie's Auctions. 100% of the revenue from the sale is used to fund the operating expense of current and next exhibition. Funding from additional sources include corporate gifts-in-kind, private philanthropy, foundation grants, corporate sponsorship, and support from the Province of British Columbia, City of Vancouver, Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation and the City of Richmond.

Education is a priority mandate of the Biennale. The goals of the Biennale eductaion program are:

- Increase public awareness and support for the Vancouver Biennale
- Build partnership and outreach to communities
- Foster critical thinking and interactive learning through art
- Educate the public on international contemporary art

These goals are achieved through artist-in-residence program, professional symposium and public lecture series.  The Biennale education program has extended its reach to the global audience through this online learning resource centre, international media coverage and publications.