Taiwan's Venice Biennale pavilion canceled over sexual assault allegations against indigenous artist Sakuliu Pavavaljung

The participation of Taiwan in the 59th Venice Biennale has been called off for artist Sakuliu Pavavaljung due to allegations of sexual assault. The Taipei Fine Arts Museum, which was responsible for the collateral pavilion curated by Patrick Flores, first paused preparations before completely withdrawing Pavavaljung's representation. Authorities are currently looking into several claims that were reported in Art Asia Pacific last month. In December 2022, artist Kuo Yu Ping shared a Facebook post alleging rape by a teacher referred to as 'Gulu Sa,' which many connected to Pavavaljung. Additionally, Yu Yueh Lien accused him of assault in 2006, with more anonymous allegations surfacing under #MeToo. The 61-year-old Paiwan artist, who was set to be Taiwan's first indigenous representative at Venice, has denied the accusations. His work encompasses painting, sculpture, and installation, focusing on indigenous identity and cultural politics. Furthermore, documenta fifteen in Kassel, curated by ruangrupa, has suspended Pavavaljung's participation while they investigate the allegations. Organizers announced on December 21 that they are taking the claims seriously, and Taiwan's National Culture and Arts Foundation has withdrawn its sponsorship for his appearance in Kassel.