Yokohama Triennale 2020 'Afterglow' Critiqued Amid Pandemic and Political Context

The Yokohama Triennale 2020, named 'Afterglow' and overseen by the Raqs Media Collective, showcases 67 artists at three locations and one online platform, with more than half presenting their work in Japan for the first time. This exhibition runs until 11 October 2020 and explores the theme of 'luminosity,' inspired by coral bioluminescence and cosmic radiation. Concepts such as 'toxicity' and 'autodidact' are used to frame the event. A review describes the exhibition as 'out of joint,' pointing out the lack of attention to political issues amidst Japan's 'Go To' tourism initiative, which began a week after the Triennale opened during a COVID-19 spike. Featured artists include Renuka Rajiv, Iiyama Yuki, Zheng Bo, and Farah Al Qasimi. Although safety protocols are in place, the atmosphere remains unsettling.