The 30th-anniversary archive exhibition of the Gwangju Biennale, "The Square: Where We Converge", concluded its 221-day run at Il Giardino Bianco Art Space in Venice, Italy, on November 24. The exhibition, which opened in April 2024, highlighted the history and enduring relevance of the Gwangju Biennale on a global stage.
As a landmark event, this special exhibition marked three decades of the Gwangju Biennale by showcasing its extensive archives and curated collections. With a thematic focus on “The Square” as a metaphor for diversity, inclusion, and artistic potential, the exhibition captured the essence of what the Biennale has stood for since its inception in 1995.
Divided into three sections, the exhibition revisited pivotal moments of the Gwangju Biennale’s history, starting with key works from its inaugural edition in 1995. These pieces provided a narrative that connected the Biennale’s early aspirations to its present-day influence, underscoring its contributions to contemporary art over the past 30 years.
In addition to its retrospective elements, the exhibition placed significant emphasis on community engagement and cultural exchange. Through an innovative internship program developed in collaboration with Ca' Foscari University in Venice, local students were invited to participate as docents and coordinators. This initiative provided them with firsthand exposure to Korean culture and art while fostering meaningful cross-cultural dialogues.
The "Square Dialogues", a complementary program held in conjunction with the exhibition, deepened the understanding of the Gwangju Biennale’s ethos and its role as a platform for discourse. These sessions brought together visitors and students to explore the Biennale’s history and its vision for the future.
The exhibition’s multifaceted approach earned widespread acclaim. By creating a “square” for dialogue and collaboration, it successfully conveyed the Gwangju Biennale’s commitment to fostering inclusivity through art. Its role as a bridge between cultures was further solidified through its educational initiatives and thought-provoking programming.
Park Yang Woo, President of the Gwangju Biennale Foundation, expressed gratitude for the positive reception of the exhibition in Venice. “This exhibition demonstrated the global relevance of the Gwangju Biennale, bringing the spirit of Gwangju to an international audience. It reaffirmed the Biennale’s role as a square where diverse voices and perspectives converge through the medium of visual art.”
As the Gwangju Biennale continues to evolve, its Venice exhibition stands as a testament to its dedication to cultural exchange and its mission to serve as a meeting point for the global arts community.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
