Momentum Biennale in Moss Explores Emotions in Its Tenth Edition

The tenth edition of the Momentum biennale in Moss, Norway, titled "The Emotional Exhibition," runs from June 8 to October 9, 2019. Curated by Marti Manen in collaboration with Anne Klontz, the biennale reflects on its decade-long history and deep roots in the city. Manen interviewed local residents and professionals to understand what remains and what fades from collective memory, bringing past works into dialogue with new productions. The exhibition addresses the complexity of emotions and acceptance, a theme characteristic of Nordic countries, but includes artists from France, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands, and Latin America for contrast. The biennale is part of a growing Scandinavian biennial scene, alongside Oslo Biennale, Helsinki Biennale (announced for 2020), Momentum, GIBCA in Gothenburg, and Luleå Biennalen. Each has its own specificity tied to its territory. Manen notes that Momentum has impacted the memories of Moss residents, with some artworks becoming shared narratives. The biennale faces a challenge: its main venue, Momentum Kunsthall, is set to disappear due to urban redevelopment and a new railway line. A collaboration with the Norwegian railway company has begun for this edition. Manen directs Index Foundation in Stockholm and presented Momentum10 together with GIBCA.