Triennales

Triennales are international exhibitions or festivals that occur every three years, usually focused on contemporary art, design, architecture, and related disciplines. The term derives from tri- (“three”) and annus (“year”): in English usage, triennale or triennales describe the category, while individual events often use the local name, such as La Triennale di Milano.

These events are typically organized by museums, cultural foundations, or city governments and are designed to present new work, foster international dialogue, and showcase trends across disciplines. A triennale usually features curated exhibitions, thematic pavilions or national sections, commissions, performances, lectures, and educational programs. Collateral activities—including side exhibitions, public programs, and partnerships with universities or cultural institutions—often accompany the main program and extend the event’s impact beyond a single venue.

Triennales vary widely in scope and emphasis. Some prioritize contemporary art, others concentrate on design or architecture, and some span multiple fields or adopt a cross-disciplinary approach. They typically run over several months and engage audiences locally as well as internationally, sometimes influencing curatorial practice and cultural policy.

The plural form, triennales, is used to refer to multiple such events around the world. While the concept is widespread, individual triennales are named after their host city or institution (for example, La Triennale di Milano). The format is valued for its periodic refresh, international participation, and potential to stimulate cultural exchange and urban development.