Research Type
Collections ManagerPerson
Katie KimeDate
Apr 22, 2025Notes
Artwork is mentioned in:
-Architectural Record, July 1982 (see page 33 of the document)
-Archetype, Spring 1982 (see pages 12 and 37 of the document)
Scans of these periodicals can be found in the Crosby Thornton and Marshall Associates file.
Summary provided to outside researcher:
Biennale Entry Portal was built specifically for the Fort Mason iteration of “Presence of the Past”. A design competition was held, and the piece was chosen to be the entryway to the “La Strada Novissima” (The Newest Street). Due to permitting circumstances, it ended up on Pier 2 instead.
The entryway was not intended to be a permanent structure and was set to be demolished at the end of the exhibition. Rene di Rosa, however, loved the piece and was allowed to have it on the condition that he paid for the dismantling, shipping and installation. Installation on our property was completed in 1986 and it serves as the gateway to our Olive Grove picnic area. Biennale Entry Portal has been the backdrop for many of our events and partnerships including performances by Shakespeare Napa Valley.