The Open Society Institute commissioned the first-ever Roma Pavilion at the Venice Contemporary Art Biennale, enabling Roma artists to present their work on a world stage. Entitled Paradise Lost and featuring 16 artists from 8 European countries, the exhibition takes place June 7–November 21, 2007.

With over 15,000 visitors so far, the Pavilion aims to foster a positive sense of identity, stimulate self-confidence, and challenge negative stereotypes of Roma by broadening their image to include sophisticated contemporary art.

“Without a dedicated Roma Pavilion, it would be impossible to introduce Roma artists to the international scene, because they do not have access to the necessary infrastructure,” said Timea Junghaus, the exhibition curator.

“To date no artist of Roma origin has been presented in the 110-year long history of the Venice Biennale,” added Junghaus.

International policy makers, artists, art critics and media have welcomed the Pavilion: “The European Commission attaches great importance to protection and respect of minority rights, in particular of the Roma, who constitute the largest ethnic minority across the European Union… I wish you every success in this exciting project,” said José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission.

Co-funded by the Allianz Kulturstiftung and the European Cultural Foundation, the Pavilion will host concerts, roundtables, and film projections.

For more information, please visit the Roma Pavilion website at www.romapavilion.org.