Thessaloniki Biennale 2011: A Rock and a Hard Place
The 3rd Thessaloniki Biennale took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, from September 18 to December 18, 2011, under the theme "Old Intersections-Make it New," with the title "A Rock and a Hard Place." Director Katerina Koskina highlighted the significance of geopolitical issues and historical context. Curators Paolo Colombo, Mahita El Bacha Urieta, and Marina Fokidis drew inspiration from Michel Serres' swimmer metaphor. Featured works included Francis Alÿs's "The Green Line" (2005) and Ahlam Shibli's "Trauma" (2008-2009). Bruce Nauman's "Partial Truth" (1997) was displayed at the Archaeological Museum, while the State Museum showcased Kostis Velonis and Ali Kazma. Orlan's videos and Jan Fabre's drawings were presented at the new Concert Hall, and Casa Bianca celebrated Alberto Savinio. Kiril Prashkov's "Commitment" (2011) made a striking impact at the Macedonian Museum.
Key facts
- 3rd Thessaloniki Biennale took place from September 18 to December 18, 2011.
- Theme: 'Old Intersections-Make it New' and 'A Rock and a Hard Place'.
- Director: Katerina Koskina.
- Curators: Paolo Colombo, Mahita El Bacha Urieta, Marina Fokidis.
- Used Michel Serres' swimmer metaphor for the exhibition concept.
- Featured Francis Alÿs, Ahlam Shibli, Bruce Nauman, Kostis Velonis, Ali Kazma, Orlan, Jan Fabre, Kiril Prashkov.
- Venues included Contemporary Art Center, Archaeological Museum, State Museum of Contemporary Art, Concert Hall, Casa Bianca, Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art.
- State Museum of Contemporary Art houses the Costakis collection of Russian avant-garde art.
Entities
Artists
- Francis Alÿs
- Ahlam Shibli
- Bruce Nauman
- Kostis Velonis
- Ali Kazma
- Orlan
- Jan Fabre
- Kiril Prashkov
- Alberto Savinio
- Vladimir Tatlin
Institutions
- Thessaloniki Biennale
- Contemporary Art Center
- Archaeological Museum
- State Museum of Contemporary Art
- Concert Hall
- Casa Bianca
- Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art
- Costakis collection
Locations
- Thessaloniki
- Greece
- Tulle
- Indochina
- Algeria
- Venice
Sources
- artpress —