BoCA – Biennial of Contemporary Arts In Lisbon from 2 Sept to 15 Oct

When it comes to the vibrant arts scene in Lisbon, there’s one event that stands out: BoCA, the Biennial of Contemporary Arts.

Picture this: 20 world premieres, 10 national premieres, 10 projects in dialogue with the rest of the program, 2 cities, and 32 presentation spaces that include theaters, museums, and cultural centers.

Bendik Giske by Luke Abby

Kicking off on September 2 and running until October 15 in Lisbon and Faro, BoCA blurs the lines between performing arts, visual arts, music, and cinema, creating new territories and values. Under the theme “Presente Invisível,” it shines a spotlight on the invisibilities of today’s world, bringing to the forefront those who often occupy the margins.

The action begins today, September 2, at the MAAT’s Praça do Carvão in Lisbon, where Gabriel Chaile’s large-scale installation takes center stage. Chaile pays tribute to Alcindo Monteiro, a young Portuguese man brutally murdered in 1995 in a racially motivated hate crime. This thought-provoking piece questions the autobiographical nature of our stories and invites reflection through communal rituals involving food, debates, music, and cinema.

Coro dos Assombrados ©Cláudia Sevivas

From September 6, the Fábrica da Cerveja in Faro becomes the epicenter of BoCA in the South, hosting installations by Tiago Cadete, Neusa Trovoada, Rita GT, João Melo/Glantosz, and the Mexican artist Héctor Zamora with his installation “Quimera,” also at the Reservatório da Patrical in Lisbon from September 7, with two public space performances in both cities.

Gabriel Chaile

But that’s just the start. BoCA offers new creations by artists like Salomé Lamas and João Pais Filipe with Marco da Silva Ferreira in the world of installations. In the world of performance, prepare for a great lineup featuring Paul B. Preciado, Agniezska Polska, Ana Borralho & João Galante, Vera Mantero with Teresa Silva, and many more. The music scene is equally exploratory and challenging, with names like Marina Herlop, Lolo & Sosaku, Frederica Campos & Os Moços da Viola Campaniça, and the exciting collaboration between saxophonist Bendik Giske and dancer/choreographer Romeu Runa.

Herlander

Under the artistic direction of John Romão, BoCA is supported by various institutions, including the Ministry of Culture, the Municipalities of Lisbon and Faro, Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Millennium BCP Foundation, and partnerships with institutions like Institut Français du Portugal, Festival Queer Lisboa, FLAD, and Goethe Institut Lisboa. BoCA’s impact on the Portuguese arts scene is undeniable. It injects fresh energy, sparks conversations, and nurtures creativity. It’s a testament to Portugal’s vibrant cultural landscape and its ability to evolve with the times.

Yvonn Rainer – Murder and Murder

From September 2 to October 15, BoCA invites you to reflect, feel, and above all, experience the “Presente Invisível.” For more information, including the full program, dates, times, and ticket details, visit bocabienal.org.