Singapore artist Zai Kuning is getting a reset in the team helping him to succeed at this year’s Venice Biennale after several team members backed out because of artistic differences.
Zai, an artist whose work spans many different genres, is entering a special installation in a very visible location at the biennale, so it is important for both him and his team to do their best work possible. They are representing art in Singapore at a renowned global event. The installation itself features a large boat made out of rattan, the effect almost being one of abstraction. Surrounding the boat are a number of photo and sound displays that feature interviews and research conducted by Zai with the descendants of sea people who historically lived on the shores and plied the seas with their watercraft. The installation is a comprehensive look at both the art of shipbuilding and the culture of those who use the specific style of boat that Zai recreated.
The exhibit as a whole is an homage to a voyage taken by an important ancestor in ancient Malay culture. It also symbolizes the exchange of knowledge and growth of culture through the practice of travel and exploration. This isn’t the first time that Zai has constructed such a ship, though it is its largest form. He has been exhibiting a similar show around Singapore and other locations in the world.
Beyond Zai simply making the art, there are lots of considerations his team must sort out ahead of the biennale. There is first the matter of shipping the artwork, as well as ensuring the facilities at the event are wired and designed to support the size and scope of the installation. Throughout all of this, the artistic team must ensure that they stick to the prescribed schedule to make sure they don’t fall behind and miss key deadlines for the biennale.
Being successful at the Venice Biennale with the exhibit will catapult Singaporean art onto the global stage. One government official lauded Zai’s work, saying that it brings recognition to important cultural moments in the region’s history and will hopefully bring a brand new audience for Singaporean art.
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To read more about the Singapore team for the Venice Biennale, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/new-artistic-team-for-venice-biennale-work.