In a celebration of art, culture, and the resilience of women, the Republic of Uzbekistan proudly announces its participation in the prestigious 60th International Art Exhibition — La Biennale di Venezia. The event, scheduled to run from April 20 to November 24, 2024, promises to be a captivating exploration of identity and migration through the lens of Central Asian women, under the guiding theme “Don’t Miss the Cue.”
ADDRESS Arsenale, Tese Cinquecentesche
EVENTS April 17–18–19, pre-opening days; April 18, 12.00pm, inauguration
WEBSITE www.acdf.uz
Curated by the Centre for Contemporary Art Tashkent, the Uzbek Pavilion’s debut at La Biennale di Venezia will showcase the visionary work of artist Aziza Kadyri. Collaborating with the Tashkent-based Qizlar collective, Kadyri’s project delves into the multifaceted experiences of women from Central Asia, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of belonging and identity within the context of migration.
“‘Don’t Miss the Cue’ is a platform where women’s voices converge, each echoing a unique journey of migration, transformation, and resilience,” shares Kadyri. “Through art and technology, we reimagine our cultural heritage, weaving together narratives of the past and present to shape a contemporary Uzbek identity.”
At the heart of the exhibition lies a captivating theatrical setting, reminiscent of the communal Houses of Culture that once dotted Eurasia in the early 20th century. Sculptures, meticulously crafted from traditional costume sketches, mingle with immersive audiovisual installations by the Qizlar Collective, creating an evocative tableau that explores the intricate relationship between the female body and its environment.
Anastasia Kurylova, Executive Director of the Qizlar Collective, emphasizes the importance of amplifying women’s voices within the exhibition. “Our aim is to unveil the essence of women’s identity, weaving their narratives into the fabric of our art,” says Kurylova. “Through collective practices and shared experiences, we strive to create a space where women’s stories can flourish.”
Moreover, the exhibition boldly embraces the intersection of technology and tradition, offering a thought-provoking reinterpretation of Uzbek hand embroidery, known as “suzane.” Utilizing artificial intelligence, traditional suzane patterns undergo a metamorphosis, blurring the boundaries between past and present, tradition and innovation. This fusion serves as a poignant commentary on the evolving nature of culture and the profound impact of technology on societal norms.
The National Pavilion of Uzbekistan’s debut at La Biennale di Venezia marks a significant milestone in the country’s artistic journey. Having participated in previous editions of the Biennale, Uzbekistan continues to assert its presence on the global stage, captivating audiences with its rich cultural tapestry and innovative artistic endeavors.
With “Don’t Miss the Cue,” Uzbekistan invites visitors to embark on a transformative journey, where art becomes a conduit for understanding, empathy, and connection. As viewers navigate through the exhibition’s immersive installations, they are prompted to reflect on their own experiences, reimagining notions of identity and belonging in an ever-changing world.
As the curtains rise on the 60th International Art Exhibition in Venice, Uzbekistan stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the global art scene, reaffirming its commitment to fostering dialogue, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
