First Biennial at the End of the World Opens in Ushuaia
From March 29 to April 29, 2007, Ushuaia, Argentina, hosted the inaugural Biennial at the End of the World. This event was part of the International Polar Year festivities and showcased approximately sixty artworks from seventeen nations, predominantly Argentina and Brazil. The biennial emphasized themes related to aesthetics, ecology, and politics, tackling issues such as climate change, atmospheric pollution, and the interplay between humans and nature. Curator Leonor Amarante underscored the importance of the South Pole. Among the highlighted pieces were Fred Forest's ecological SOS, Antarctic Village by Lucy and Jorge Orta, and Caceres Dolores's burning letters. Unfortunately, despite its artistic value, attendance was minimal, and the international media largely ignored the event, which was a disappointment for its innovative views on contemporary art.
Key facts
- First Biennial at the End of the World held in Ushuaia, Argentina, from March 29 to April 29, 2007.
- Part of the International Polar Year celebrations starting March 15.
- Venues: former prison (Ancien bagne) and Polideportivo.
- Approximately 60 works from 17 countries; Argentina and Brazil contributed over two-thirds.
- Three vocations: aesthetic, ecological, and political.
- General curator: Leonor Amarante (Brazilian).
- Fred Forest created an ecological SOS via shortwave radio from the old prison.
- Lucy and Jorge Orta created Antarctic Village with textile igloos and symbolic passports.
- Caceres Dolores burned giant alphabet letters on the shore; Edgar Hechavarria used shipping containers; Raquel Schwarz made a pink synthetic fur bus shelter.
- Poor public attendance and lack of international press coverage.
Entities
Artists
- Fred Forest
- Lucy Orta
- Jorge Orta
- Caceres Dolores
- Edgar Hechavarria
- Raquel Schwarz
- Leonor Amarante
Institutions
- Biennial at the End of the World
- International Polar Year
Locations
- Ushuaia
- Argentina
- Tierra del Fuego
- Beagle Channel
- Antarctica
- Buenos Aires
Sources
- artpress —