Rashid Rana and Shilpa Gupta Present Joint India-Pakistan Pavilion at 2015 Venice Biennale

At the 2015 Venice Biennale, artists Rashid Rana and Shilpa Gupta are joining forces for 'My East is Your West,' showcasing their work at Palazzo Benzon, representing both India and Pakistan. This initiative, commissioned by The Gujral Foundation, challenges conventional representations of nation-states. Rana's contribution comprises architectural forms that delve into themes of identity and dislocation, while Gupta plans to install a 10-meter light sculpture on the building's exterior, contrasting state structures with personal ambitions. Both artists provide critical perspectives on national representation, with Rana emphasizing that the pavilion undermines nation-state concepts. The exhibition's setting enhances discussions of movement and travel, and Rana's project also includes a physical element in Pakistan to engage younger artists. They expect varied audiences and intend to tour the Biennale post-opening.