Berlin Biennale Confronts Colonial Legacies with Decolonial Strategies
Opening on June 11, the 12th Berlin Biennale, curated by Kader Attia, delves into themes of colonial and imperial heritage as well as resistance. Approximately 70 artists and collectives will showcase their work across various locations in Berlin, investigating the links between colonialism, fascism, and imperialism. The event prompts discussions on decolonial ecology, non-Western feminist movements, and the ongoing debates surrounding restitution and emotional reclamation through art. Attendees can participate in guided tours, workshops, performances, film screenings, and conferences. The 2018 report by Bénédicte Savoy and Felwine Sarr concerning African cultural heritage restitution has ignited conversations in Europe about colonial legacies. Participating venues include KW Institute, Akademie der Künste, and Hamburger Bahnhof. Tickets are priced at 18€, with discounts available.
Key facts
- The 12th Berlin Biennale opens on June 11.
- It is curated by Kader Attia with an artistic team.
- Around 70 artists and collectives from various countries participate.
- The focus is on colonial and imperialist heritage, resistance, and repair.
- Venues include KW Institute for Contemporary Art, Akademie der Künste, Dekoloniale Memory Culture in the City, former Stasi headquarters, and Hamburger Bahnhof.
- Parallel events include guided tours, workshops, performances, film screenings, and conferences.
- The 2018 Savoy-Sarr report on restitution of African cultural heritage is referenced.
- Individual tickets cost 18€, with reduced rates available.
Entities
Artists
- Kader Attia
- Bénédicte Savoy
- Felwine Sarr
- Cedric J. Robinson
Institutions
- Berlin Biennale
- KW Institute for Contemporary Art
- Akademie der Künste
- Dekoloniale Memory Culture in the City
- Hamburger Bahnhof – Museum für Gegenwart – Berlin
- Archiv der Avantgarden – Egidio Marzona
Locations
- Berlin
- Germany