Busan, South Korea – The 2024 Busan Biennale, a leading event in the international contemporary art world, is set to commence on August 17th, marking a bold departure from tradition by launching in the height of summer. This shift, the first in the Biennale’s history, is designed to invigorate the city’s summer cultural offerings and attract an influx of tourists to “Summer City Busan.” The event will run for 65 days, concluding on October 20th.
This year’s theme, “Seeing in the Dark,” challenges attendees to explore darkness not merely as the absence of light but as a metaphor for navigating the uncertainties and complexities of modern life. The exhibition will be held across four significant venues in Busan: the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, the Busan Modern & Contemporary History Museum, HANSUNG1918, and Choryang House. These venues were chosen not only for their historical and cultural significance but also for their ability to embody the theme’s philosophical depth.
Curated by Vera Mey of New Zealand and Philippe Pirotte of Belgium, the Biennale will showcase the works of 78 artists from 36 countries. The curators have designed the exhibition to push the boundaries of conventional thought, integrating concepts such as “pirate utopia” and Buddhist enlightenment. This thematic approach aims to provoke new ways of thinking about our place in a world characterized by systemic contradictions and evolving social norms.
A significant feature of this year’s Biennale is its emphasis on amplifying underrepresented voices in the art world. The lineup includes a strong contingent of artists from Africa and Asia, whose works address issues of Western dominance, labor exploitation, and the sensory experiences of darkness. For example, Vietnamese artists Nguyen Phuong Linh and Thuong Nguyen will present pieces exploring the impact of Western power structures on their country, while Madagascar’s Dina Nomena Andriarimanzaka will offer a unique perspective on “pirate enlightenment,” informed by her cultural heritage as a descendant of the Becimisaraka dynasty.
The Biennale is more than just an art exhibition; it is a cultural experience that includes various collaborative programs designed to foster dialogue and innovation. Among these are the “Pirate Panels,” which will engage with themes such as the interplay between reality and imagination, and the “Pirate Carnival,” a participatory performance event. Other highlights include sound projects and public performances, all crafted to create an immersive environment that resonates with the Biennale’s overarching theme.
The opening ceremony, scheduled for August 16th at 5:00 PM, will take place on a specially constructed outdoor stage at the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art. The event will feature a lineup of performances, including a special set by the Busan-based band Ska Wakers. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear directly from the curators and meet some of the participating artists, offering a unique glimpse into the creative processes behind the exhibition.
The Busan Biennale has earned a reputation for its innovative approach and its role in positioning Busan as a global cultural hub. The 2024 edition is expected to further this legacy, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary issues through a diverse and thought-provoking array of artistic expressions.
For those interested in attending, the Biennale offers various ticketing options, including discounted rates through pre-sale promotions and partnerships with local cultural institutions. The event is also part of the broader “Korea Art Festival” initiative, which integrates major cultural events across the country to promote South Korea as a premier destination for art and culture.
As the Biennale prepares to open its doors, it promises not only to captivate audiences with its artistic innovation but also to contribute to Busan’s growing status as a global cultural destination. This year’s theme, venues, and international roster of artists underscore the Biennale’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary art and cultural dialogue.
