The Serpentine Pavilion 2024 - Archipelagic Void by Minsuk Cho
The Serpentine Gallery unveils the 23rd iteration of its renowned Pavilion series – Archipelagic Void – designed by Seoul-based architect Minsuk Cho and his firm Mass Studies. Opening its doors on June 7th, 2024, the Pavilion is generously supported by Goldman Sachs for the tenth consecutive year.
A Constellation of Spaces
This year's design departs from the singular structure tradition. Archipelagic Void features five distinct "islands" – each unique in size, form, and purpose. Acting as a central hub, a void space evokes a traditional Korean madang courtyard, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Content and Connection
Surrounding the void, each island serves a specific function, aptly named the Gallery, Library, Auditorium, Tea House, and Play Tower. Together, they create ten diverse spaces – five covered areas and five open-air ones that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding park.
A Symphony of the Senses - laying out the space
Stepping into the Gallery, visitors are met with a six-channel sound installation by Jang Young-Gyu. Titled "The Willow is <버들은> in the Summer and Moonlight <월정명> in the Autumn," the piece blends sounds of nature from Kensington Gardens with traditional Korean music, transforming with the changing seasons.
The Library of Unread Books, a collaboration between artist Heman Chong and archivist Renée Staal, invites visitors to contribute unread books, fostering a shared pool of knowledge and sparking conversations about accessibility.
The Tea House, a reimagination of the Serpentine South building's original purpose, pays homage to the site's history as a place for social gatherings.
The Auditorium, the largest island, boasts built-in benches and hosts a program of captivating talks and performances.
The Play Tower, a vibrant pyramid structure with an orange netscape, invites visitors, especially children, to climb and engage in imaginative play.
A Hub of Activity
Throughout the summer, the Serpentine Pavilion will be a vibrant hub for the Serpentine's Park Nights program. This interdisciplinary platform features live music, poetry readings, and captivating dance performances, including a piece by choreographer Eun-Me Ahn and her company.
Serpentine Arts Technologies has curated a day exploring the intersection of technology, ownership, and ecology. Visitors can become stewards of a collaborative artwork by Tomás Saraceno, supporting indigenous communities in Argentina.
The Serpentine Pavilion 2024 promises an experience that is both thought-provoking and interactive. With its unique architecture, diverse programming, and focus on community, Archipelagic Void promises to be a highlight of London's cultural calendar.