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2026espiar a noiteBienal Anozero Coimbra — Museu
curated by Hans Ibelings and John Zeppetelli










Between the inside and the outside, the active and the inactive, two discreet presences guard the threshold of the MUSEU’s space. The reproduction of the shutter-like objects, in their unique and distinct form, features two elements that, while reminding us of the original, utilitarian versions, reveal other functions. Small amulets resting hidden in the translucent fabric, almost invisible, like secrets sewn into the hems or in the shadows. Through their slits, the gaze tries to reach something in the distance but finds only a dark night.

In the opposite window, a light remains constantly on. Diffused and steady, it floats like a small suspended sun, quietly illuminating the interior as it projects onto the facing display and enters into dialogue with the variations of light and shadow that pass through it.

As the exterior light shifts, the two spaces enter into a subtle dialogue of brightness and shadow, never fully aligned. Between protection and silent vigilance, the two vitrines inhabit that uncertain moment in which someone tries to peer into the night, without knowing whether, on the other side, they too are being watched.

Espiar a Noite is an installation created for MUSEU, a space established as part of the 6th edition of the Coimbra Biennial Anozero, titled To Hold, to Give, to Receive, curated by Hans Ibelings, John Zeppetelli with Daniel Madeira as curatorial assistant. The installation is conceived as a mutable structure that can adapt to different environments and locations, allowing the blinds to be rearranged into different configurations and positions, together and alone. Outside the context of MUSEU, the artwork takes the title O Limiar.

11.04.26 — 05.07.26
photos Inês Brites / Bruno Lopes