In the heart of London, a new exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is challenging traditional art narratives and historical hierarchies.
'Rising Voices: Contemporary Art from Asia, Australia and the Pacific' showcases over 70 works, many never before exhibited in the UK, from artists across 25 countries. This exhibition, in collaboration with the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), is a significant step towards recognizing and celebrating the diverse artistic voices of the Asia-Pacific region.
A Long-Awaited Recognition
Daniel Slater, director of exhibitions at the V&A, believes these exhibitions are long overdue. He emphasizes the responsibility of British institutions to bring these incredible works to a wider audience. The Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT), established in 1993, has been a launchpad for renowned artists like Cai Guo-Qiang and Lee Bul, yet its influence has not been fully acknowledged in the UK until now.
Navigating Practical Challenges
The process of bringing these works to London was not without its challenges. Conservation specialists at QAGOMA had to navigate the safe transportation of delicate and monumental pieces across the globe. From Thai artist Montien Boonma's 'Lotus Sound' installation to Japanese sculptor Takahiro Iwasaki's intricate wooden model, the exhibition showcases a range of media and materials.
Capturing the Essence
Curators Tarun Nagesh and Daniel Slater devised a four-part exhibition to capture the essence of three decades of triennials. The first room provides a subtle introduction, showcasing the diversity of works, while subsequent sections delve into politics, materiality, and spirituality.
Reflecting on Colonialism
One of the key themes explored in the exhibition is the impact of colonialism. Judy Watson, an Aboriginal artist, presents 'Memory Bones,' a powerful painting that reflects on the ongoing colonial violence in Australia. The work symbolizes the broken bones and blood of Mulrunji Doomadgee, an Aboriginal man who died in police custody, and serves as a reminder of the overincarceration of Indigenous people in Australia.
Filipino artist Brenda V Fajardo also addresses colonialism through her vibrant paintings, framed by tarot cards, offering a unique perspective on Filipino history during Spanish and American rule.
Challenging Historical Hierarchies
The exhibition itself becomes a challenge to historical hierarchies. Works from former British colonies hang alongside British masterpieces and monuments to the monarchy. The juxtaposition of Lola Greeno's shell necklaces, for example, with Queen Victoria's sapphire-adorned coronet, invites visitors to draw connections and reflect on the core of global art-making.
A New Perspective
'Rising Voices' offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a sense of discovery and gain a deeper understanding of the central role of Asian and Pacific art in the global art narrative. As Slater puts it, "It's a chance for us to make clear that the story of Asian and Pacific art is not on the periphery, but at the core of global art-making."
Conclusion
This exhibition is a testament to the power of art to challenge, inspire, and educate. By bringing these works to London, the V&A and QAGOMA have taken a significant step towards recognizing and celebrating the diverse artistic voices of the Asia-Pacific region. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of global art and its historical contexts.
