Ocula's editors have curated a list of 10 must-see collateral exhibitions in Venice that are not part of the main Biennale. Highlights include Shirin Neshat's film trilogy "Do U Dare!" about YouTuber Nasim Aghdam, Hernan Bas's ironic paintings of tourists at Ca' Pesaro, and the group show "Outta Love" featuring Francesca Woodman, Jenny Saville, and Wolfgang Tillmans. Another notable exhibition is "Turāndokht" from Parasol unit, which brings together 11 female artists from Central Asia to challenge Orientalist stereotypes.
These collateral shows matter because they offer deeper, more focused explorations of themes often peripheral to the main Biennale, such as the commodification of the female body, mass tourism, emotional rupture, and postcolonial identity. They provide essential context and counterpoints to the official program, enriching the overall art experience for visitors and highlighting the vibrant independent art scene that flourishes alongside the Biennale.