Gwangju Biennale 2014 Explores Destruction and Memory with Over 100 Artists

The 2014 Gwangju Biennale, entitled 'Burning Down the House' and overseen by curator Jessica Morgan, showcased more than 100 artists who examined themes of destruction, memorialization, and reconstruction. This tenth iteration paid tribute to the 1980 pro-democracy uprising in Gwangju, featuring installations at Biennale Square. Notable works comprised Minouk Lim's 'Navigation ID' (2014), Stirling Ruby's 'Stoves' (2014), and Eduardo Basualdo's 'The Island' (2009). Historical contributions included Jack Goldstein's 'Burning Window' (1977) and Cornelia Parker's 'Heart of Darkness' (2004). Contemporary highlights featured Camille Henrot's 'Augmented Objects' (2010) and Lee Bul's early performances, while interactive pieces included Carsten Höller's 'Sliding Doors' (2014) and Koo Jeong A's 'Its Soul' (2014), all reflecting Gwangju's legacy of political repression.