"In times like these, to envision working towards an exhibition that was supposed to be a vast celebration of art, respect and togetherness feels inconceivable whilst heinous crimes are still being committed in Ukraine. We strongly condemn the Russian attack on Ukraine and are united with everyone who calls for an immediate end of the war," said the organizers of the biennial.
RIBOCA's statement quotes: "As a contemporary art institution, it is our responsibility to provide a space where artists and the public can interact, engage in discussions, and reflect on our realities. Therefore, together with artists, other art and cultural institutions, curators, and art professionals, we are initiating an open discussion to rethink the art industry’s place in the wider world. We must reconsider the validity of the biennial format in times like these. There must be discourse on how the art world and biennials can influence and engage societies during periods of war and conflict. What kind of platform for expression and exchange do artists, curators, and our society need?"
It is planned that the same exhibit that was planned this year, titled Exercises in Respect, will be implemented next year.
