Statement in support of Canakkale Biennial

The International Biennial Association (IBA) has learned of Canakkale Biennial’s cancellation, and IBA gives its support to the Canakkale Biennial and its organizer, the Canakkale Biennial Initiative (CABININ).

The Canakkale Biennial was focused on the theme of migration, an issue significant to the region today and in recent years. To not see this biennial fulfilled will have a significant impact on the global biennial community, as the biennial form serves as a neutral method of cultural expression the world over.

From CABININ’s official statement, the Canakkale Biennial “has always been unique in its active involvement with public, private and civil formations and in its dialogue with all segments of society. It has been an increasingly important responsibility to organise an internationally recognised event in Çanakkale through the universal language of art, and to make visible the social fabric of our city that has adopted a culture of peace and tolerance. With this responsibility in mind, we have continued our work with dedication, with the ongoing support of our partners and supporters.”

To uphold IBA’s mission as a center for producing multidisciplinary discourse that embodies the productive and discursive voices of the global biennial community, it is essential to recognize the biennial concept as a form of cultural strength and action.

IBA stands with the Canakkale Biennial as a member of the association, and gives its support to the Canakkale Biennial in hopes that future editions of the biennial can be realized.

–International Biennial Association

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