UniCredit Bank has become a strategic partner of Romania’s participation at the Venice Biennale, one of the world’s most prestigious and long-running contemporary art events. The public–private partnership aims to provide financial stability, continuity, and international impact for Romania’s cultural projects.
The cooperation protocol was signed by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, the Romanian Cultural Institute (ICR), and UniCredit Bank, in the presence of Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu, ICR President Liviu Sebastian Jicman, Culture Minister András Demeter, and Mihaela Lupu, CEO of UniCredit Bank Romania.
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Under the agreement, UniCredit Bank will cover part of the costs related to the development and implementation of Romania’s projects at the Venice Art Biennale and the Venice Architecture Biennale, allowing artists and architects to focus on creation. The agreement is initially valid for one year, with automatic extension, providing a predictable and sustainable multiannual framework.
“The Venice Biennale is a key platform for cultural diplomacy, where Romania asserts its identity without choosing between tradition and modernity. Romania’s image abroad is a shared responsibility, effectively supported through public–private partnerships,” said Oana Țoiu, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Cultural diplomacy and institutional continuity
ICR President Liviu Sebastian Jicman emphasized that the institute’s 2022–2026 strategy encourages stronger public–private partnerships to enhance Romania’s international cultural presence, with the Venice Biennale playing a central role.
UniCredit Bank has supported Romania’s participation at the Venice Biennales for over a decade. “Romania’s presence at the International Art and Architecture Exhibitions in Venice is a pillar of national cultural diplomacy, a strategic effort that UniCredit Bank is honored to support as a principal partner,” said Mihaela Lupu, CEO of UniCredit Bank Romania.
Founded in 1895, the Venice Biennale is the world’s oldest contemporary art exhibition. Romania has participated since 1907 and has exhibited in its own pavilion in the Giardini since 1940.
Photo: ZF
