KIRIBATI PAVILION – 57th LA BIENNALE DI VENEZIA 2017
ARS LONGA, VITA BREVIS! / SINKING ISLANDS, UNSINKABLE ART
In Kiribati language
E KAI MAUNANAKO TE ABA, TE RIKIA E TEI N NENE N AKI KONA NI BUA
The exhibition of the Kiribati Pavilion reflects on the vulnerable position of its art, which has preserved throughout history the unique and primal nature of culture and customs. The Kiribati Pavilion represents the joint efforts of 35 artists from different generations and branches of art, whose works are intertwined and whose passion for art guides them in their shared objective of presenting the unique and primal nature of their culture and customs, interlinked with contemporary art. The artistic project as a whole stirs strong self-refection in the viewers as it encourages them to reflect on human existence, human interventions into nature, and the resulting global warming. On the other hand, the project aims to arouse in the viewers mostly positive emotions, to teach them to respect traditional art, and to make art a more common part of our everyday life. For the people of the Kiribati Republic the exclamation Viva Arte Viva!, an expression of the passion for art, definitely holds true. Even though Kiribati culture is vulnerable to the dangers of the Pacific Ocean, it will never be forgotten. In accordance with the tradition, it will be passed onto future generations. Their dance and songs are more than just culture or art, they are their way of living. With singing and dancing they honour life, which is fleeting, but they constantly transfer their knowledge to those who follow, and with it their identity which is closely tied to their traditional art, since in the end, art is what remains forever. Ars Longa, Vita Brevis!
COMMISSIONER
Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kiribati, Eera Teakai Baraniko
CURATORS
Pelea Tehumu
Nina Tepes
ASSISTANT OF CURATORS
Tawake Eriata
EXHIBITORS
Performance Group Kairaken Betio: Teroloang Borouea, Neneia Takoikoi, Tineta Timirau, Teeti Aaloa, Kenneth Ioane, Kaumai Kaoma, Runita Rabwaa, Obeta Taia,Tiribo Kobaua, Tamuera Tebebe, Rairauea Rue, Teuea Kabunare, Tokintekai Ekentetake, Katanuti Francis, Mikaere Tebwebwe, Terita Itinikarawa, Kaeua Kobaua, Raatu Tiuteke, Kaeriti Baanga, Ioanna Francis, Temarewe Banaan, Aanamaria Toom, Einako Temewi, Nimei Itinikarawa, Teniteiti Mikaere, Aanibo Bwatanita, Arin Tikiraua.
Performance Group Ngaon Nareau: Teata Tetoki, Raakai Ianibata, Taorobwa Bakatokia, Tekaei Kaairo, Nabiri Kaaraiti, Abetena Itaaka, Bwobwaka Bwebwere.
Visual Artist: Daniela Danica Tepes.
Please find the official press release down below.