As an invited artist in the 61st Venice Biennale by Koyo Kouoh, Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons brought new work to the Central Pavilion honoring Koyo Kouoh and Toni Morrison through painting and sculptural works of the magnolia (the blossoms Campos-Pons sees during her walks across the Vanderbilt University campus).
As part of her contribution to the biennale, Campos-Pons, through her initiative The Engine for Art, Democracy & Justice (EADJ) program, reimagines the Fondazione Giorgio e Armanda Marchesani as a living forum – of ideas, artistic practices, and dialogue. Part of this forum is the “Resonance” exhibtion featuring 51 artist from Vanderbilt Univeristy, Nashville, and the world.
I’m am one of the 51 artists.
My contribution to the exhibition is a set of four small color pencil drawings layered with vellum and hand lettering in gouache.
Post-War is reflection on the impact of the population of Palau following WWII. Image stills from a 1949 Marine reel depicts sinkage for natives of the island to head to military camps for what is assumed as routine medical care.
The weight felt in watching this reel evoked feelings of displacement – felt within our home, our islands and our borders.
Many thanks to Magdalena Campos-Pons and Kamaal Malak for their artist direction and invitation to this exhibition and extending their reach to include us in the biennale.
Very thankful to the EADJ team for including my drawings, the work transportation to Venice, and installation. Danielle, Taylor, Simon, LeXander, and Olivia – a dream team and of course to both Grace Aneiza Ali and Selene Wendt for your curatorial guidance!
Vist the RESONANCE programs website for more information: RESONANCE: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY IN VENICE.
It’s important to mention that these drawings were completed while-in-residence with the Arcade Arts Nashville artist residency program. This residency offers a public-facing experience where artist open their practice to engage the community. While in residence, twelve artists are selected and provided with rent-free studios on the second floor of the historic Arcade In downtown Nashville for 10 months.
