Azu Nwagbogu Curates Republic of Benin Pavilion at 60th Venice Biennale with 'Everything Precious is Fragile'

Azu Nwagbogu will serve as the curator for the Republic of Benin's first pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale, showcasing 'Everything Precious is Fragile' from April 20 to November 24, 2024. This exhibition draws from Yoruba Gèlèdè philosophy to tackle pressing global ecological challenges while highlighting indigenous knowledge and rematriation. Among the featured artists are Romuald Hazoumè, Charly d'Almeida, Ishola Akpo, and Moufouli Bello. Nwagbogu cautions against state-driven censorship in Europe and shows interest in other African representations, particularly the Netherlands' choice of CATPC and Renzo Martens. He encourages the exploration of Gèlèdè and Vodoun rituals, Agojie history, and colonialism's effects, advocating for broader interpretations of national art that embrace universal emotional truths.