SEOUL, This year’s Gwangju Biennale will explore the artistic resonances of pansori, its organizer said Tuesday.
The Gwangju Biennale Foundation said a total of 73 artists from 30 countries will showcase their works under the evocative theme “Pansori — a soundscape of the 21st century” this fall.
Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of the iconic Korean musical storytelling form, which features a vocalist accompanied by a percussionist, the exhibited pieces aim to reinterpret pansori’s transcendent power for a contemporary global audience, according to the foundation.
In unveiling the roster of participating artists, the foundation said it has made great efforts to curate a selection capable of creatively reinterpreting and embodying the exhibition’s theme through contemporary artistic perspectives and practices.
The foundation unveiled the names of 17 artists during Tuesday’s press event, including South African artist Bianca Bondi, known for her focus on nature and environment, and American ar
tist Max Hooper Schneider, renowned for his sculptural installations and immersive environments.
Among the 11 Korean artists are sculptor Choi Ha-neul, sound artist Kim Young-eun, and visual artist Kwon Hye-won, a recipient of the 19th SongEun Art Award.
The exhibition will interweave three distinct yet organically interconnected sub-sections to visually demonstrate the intrinsic essence of pansori, providing visitors with a holistic, multifaceted experience, the foundation said.
French curator Nicolas Bourriaud has assumed the role of artistic director for the biennale. He is widely recognized for his expertise in art theory and curatorial prowess, demonstrated through his contributions to numerous global art institutions and events.
Throughout his career, Bourriaud has consistently explored art practices centered on human relationships and communication, often incorporating elements of technology, media and networks into his works, according to the foundation.
The 15th biennale is set to take place in
the southwestern city of Gwangju from Sept. 7-Dec. 1.
Source: Yonhap News Agency