I See Challenges As Creative Opportunities

In Our Veins Flow Ink and Fire. That is the title of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale’s fifth edition. Its curator, Shubigi Rao, says in her curatorial note: “There is optimism even in the darkest absurdity, and this is what leavens the direness of our time.” When KMB 2020 released its first list of artists on July 21, it was indeed a breath of fresh air amid the gloom of the pandemic.

- Karthik Ravindranath

But, the shadow of Covid-19 still hangs over KMB 2020, scheduled to run from December 12 to April 10, 2021. Rao, a Singapore-based artist, and writer, says that while the pandemic is a big challenge, it is also an opportunity for people to work collectively with a common cause. The Mumbai-born polymath talks to THE WEEK about her plans for KMB 2020. Excerpts:

Q The KMB is known as the people’s biennale. But with Covid-19 showing no signs of abating, would it not be challenging to welcome huge crowds?

A/ The Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) is in touch with the government of Kerala to devise strategies for safety and precaution and are following the health ministry’s protocols. Since our venues are large, it is possible to regulate movement and also maintain social distancing comfortably. KBF is currently working towards determining these measures. We are also in touch with other international and regional biennales and institutions to learn from one another and navigate these times collectively.

Q What are the key concerns of artists? Especially in the light of global travel restrictions. Artists may need at least three to four months to finalise site-based installations.