Peru's First National Pavilion at 2015 Venice Biennale Features Gilda Mantilla and Raimond Chaves

Gilda Mantilla and Raimond Chaves represent Peru in its inaugural national pavilion at the 2015 Venice Biennale, located in the Arsenale. Their exhibition examines connections between past and present in Peru through the lens of ruins, translating local concerns into a global context. The artists describe this participation as both an honor and problematic, acknowledging the effort behind Peru's first pavilion while questioning the nation-state model in an era of globalization. They approach the show with their usual rigor but note the unique translation required for Venice's international audience. Mantilla and Chaves aim to engage a committed, curious spectator by combining various registers and disciplines to make complex issues accessible. The pavilion is seen as a significant step for Peru's art scene, providing a platform to strengthen cultural work and represent a diverse community. Mantilla previously participated in the Latin American pavilion in 2003, while Chaves first visited the biennale in 1995. Both artists express interest in seeing all exhibitions and national pavilions during their time in Venice.