|
Venice and Istanbul are two of the most unique cities in the world, geographically and historically. The eyes of the art world will be focussed on these cities as they host two major events in the field of contemporary art.
Content versus presentation
Dating back 110 years, the prestigious Venice Biennale attracts over 300,000 visitors a year. This year, the 51st International Venice Biennale opened on June 12th and features two major international exhibitions, 73 national pavilions and 30 side events. For the first time ever, it is in the hands of two female curators: Maria de Corral and Rosa Martinez. The two main exhibitions curated by the two women, ''The Experience of Art'' and ''Always a Little Further'', are wholly independent and yet complete each other. Martinez included large-scale photographs by Bülent Şangar and over 20 paintings by Semiha Berksoy in her exhibition. As usual, the competition between the national pavilions has been fierce, with every country trying to surpass the others, both with their choice of artworks and opening ceremonies. Sadly, the Turkish Pavilion that features a video installation by Hussein Chalayan attracted more attention for the opening party than for the work itself.
Different artistic stances and Istanbul
Since it was established in 1987, the Istanbul Biennial has become one of the most respected artistic events in the world. This year, the 9th International Istanbul Biennial, curated by Charles Esche and Vasıf Kortun, will be held from September 17-October 30. The title of the biennial is Istanbul and will feature works by 54 artists or collectives. Esche and Kortun will select artworks on two grounds: firstly, by commissioning works by artists who deal directly with the urban conditions of the city, its history and future and, secondly, by selecting works that provoke a contrast to Istanbul or provide a conscious estrangement from the surrounding reality. The biennial will organise long-term residencies in Istanbul for some artists.The biennial will be situated in several spaces in the Taksim-Galata region of Istanbul, rather than in the historical peninsula. There will be fewer artists in total, often more than one work by each artist, and a scaling down of durational video.
Viewing a work of art is a rewarding subjective experience that involves both the emotions and the mind. Make sure to visit either (or both) of these important events. wwwlabiennale.org www.iksv.org/ bienal
