Exploring "The Real" at the 81st Whitney Biennial

The 81st Whitney Biennial, titled "Even Better Than the Real Thing," has opened to both acclaim and criticism. The exhibition, features 71 artists and collectives delving into the concept of "the real" in contemporary society. This show signifies a shift from past Biennials, focusing less on overt political statements and more on conceptual art that explores the fluidity of bodies.

A Multi-Screen Journey Through History

A standout work in the exhibition is Isaac Julien's multi-screen video installation, "Once Again ... (Statues Never Die)." The film unfolds in a cubist fashion across multiple screens, exploring the dialogue between Alaine Locke, a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, and Albert Barnes, the founder of Philadelphia's Barnes Foundation. Julien's poetic imagery and use of music infuse the film with a rich humanity, connecting high-flown ideas to tangible experiences.

Art from Discards

Noteworthy artist Ser Serpas is represented in the exhibition with an installation that resembles a temporary encampment made from discarded mattresses, tents, and broken mirrors. Despite its tarnished and drab appearance, the arrangement takes on a splintered grace and provides a glimpse into a life devoid of material possessions and societal expectations. It challenges our notions of value and the high levels of pride we often need to face the world.

The Materiality of Art

The exhibition also showcases artists who explore the materiality of art. Lotus L. Kang employs wide swaths of sensitized photographic film, draping them over joists suspended from the ceiling. The film reacts to light, creating an environment filled with mystery and evoking a sense of presence through absence. Takako Yamaguchi's paintings blur the boundaries between abstraction and representation, morphing forms from nature into abstract shapes and patterns.

Critiques and Praise

While the exhibition has been commended for its thought-provoking and visually striking works, it has also attracted criticism for its lack of overtly political statements. Some argue that the show falls short in addressing pressing issues such as war, the pandemic, and social inequality. However, the curators have decided to focus on the concept of the body in flux, examining how bodies and identities adapt and change in response to societal and environmental pressures.

Final Thoughts

The 81st Whitney Biennial presents a diverse and thought-provoking exploration of contemporary art. The exhibition challenges our perceptions of reality and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. While it may not satisfy those seeking overt political statements, it successfully provokes introspection and engages viewers on visceral and psychological levels. The artists featured in the exhibition deserve recognition for their excellent work, which merits appreciation on its own terms.

The Power of Art

Ultimately, the Whitney Biennial offers a platform for artists to address pressing issues and participate in discussions about our complex and ever-evolving world. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to provoke thought, challenge norms, and inspire change.