Busan Biennale 2024: Uniting cultures through ‘Seeing in the Dark’ By Prabuddha Ghosh

Busan Biennale 2024: Uniting cultures through ‘Seeing in the Dark’

By Prabuddha Ghosh

 

Art enthusiasts and connoisseurs have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of works from artists worldwide, including representation from the Caribbean, Africa, and over 15 Asian countries, at the Busan Biennale in Busan, South Korea. Running for 65 days from August 17 to October 20, 2024, the event is set in Busan, South Korea's second-largest city and major port. This vibrant metropolitan hub, known for its beaches, seafood, and cultural events, also serves as a gateway to the Eurasian continent and a popular tourist destination.

Busan's rich history spans nearly 2,000 years, with significant milestones such as its designation as a trading port with Japan in the 15th century and its role as a refuge and temporary capital during the Korean War. The Biennale, curated by Vera Mey and Philippe Pirotte under the theme "Seeing in the Dark," features 62 artists and collectives (78 artists in total) from 36 countries and territories. The exhibition is held across various venues in Busan’s original downtown area, including the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, the Busan Modern & Contemporary History Museum, HANSUNG1918 - Busan Community Cultural Center, and Choryang House—a historic site in Choryang-dong with a unique atmosphere.

The 2024 Busan Biennale, themed "Seeing in the Dark," delves into a profound visual paradox that contrasts the conventional notion of darkness with the act of seeing, urging visitors to transcend the limitations of sight alone and engage all of their senses. This intriguing theme encourages participants to challenge their preconceived perceptions, prompting a deeper exploration of how we navigate and understand the world around us.

At its core, "Seeing in the Dark" intertwines two seemingly disparate forms of enlightenment—'Pirate Enlightenment' and 'Buddhist Enlightenment.' The former represents an alternative historical narrative, one that defies conventional norms and embraces a rebellious, unconventional path to knowledge. In contrast, 'Buddhist Enlightenment' draws from a rich tradition deeply rooted in Asia, particularly in South Korea, emphasizing introspection, mindfulness, and the transcendence of the material world.

By merging these two concepts, the Busan Biennale offers a unique lens through which to view the world, inviting participants to reconsider their understanding of history, spirituality, and existence. This thematic exploration not only challenges the audience to see beyond the surface but also to question the very nature of perception itself. Ultimately, the 2024 Busan Biennale aims to foster a more nuanced and holistic approach to understanding, one that transcends conventional boundaries and opens up new possibilities for perceiving and existing in the world.

The exhibition includes metaphorical interpretations of darkness, such as the domination of Western powers, social hierarchies, and labor issues, through the works of artists like Nguyễn Phương Linh & Trương Quế Chi (Vietnam) and Than Sok and Kanitha Tith (Cambodia). South Korean artist HongLee Hyunsook incorporates actual darkness into her works, using sound and touch where vision is limited. Other featured artists include Dina Nomena Andriarimanjaka (Madagascar), whose matrilineal heritage ties to the Betsimisaraka Kingdom, foundational in ‘Pirate Enlightenment’ histories. Contemporary art from African and Caribbean countries—such as Senegal, Jamaica, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo— is also to be showcased through videos and installations.

Throughout its history, the Busan Biennale has repurposed idle local spaces as exhibition venues, with this year’s event taking place at the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art on Eulsukdo Island and other locations in the original city center. The Biennale also makes use of the Vault Art Museum at the Busan Modern & Contemporary History Museum and features sound projects in nearby spaces. In Choryang-dong, the unique Choryang House opens its doors to highlight Busan’s distinct cultural heritage. Additionally, the Biennale collaborates with PanStar Cruise to present videos, installations, and related programs aboard one of its ferries.

India, despite being a significant market for contemporary art with a wealth of neo-contemporary thinkers and reviewers, has limited representation at this Biennale. The sole Indian-origin participant is Rajyashri Goody, who splits her time between India and the Netherlands. However, during extended discussions with the Biennale organizers, a desire for greater Indian participation was expressed. Future collaborations are expected to enhance bilateral relations and foster cultural brotherhood between India and South Korea.

The Busan Biennale 2024 highlights the global impact of contemporary art by fostering meaningful cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. With artists and contributors from 36 countries, including significant representation from India, this Biennale exemplifies how art can bridge diverse cultures and perspectives. The event not only enhances Busan’s cultural landscape but also sets the stage for future artistic and cultural collaborations on a global scale. Through this international participation, the Biennale underscores the power of art to connect people across borders, fostering a deeper appreciation of global artistic expressions and paving the way for ongoing cultural exchange.

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