S04 E06: ‘The Biennale’ with Clive Kellner and Ame Bell

In this episode, we delve into the role of the Biennale, a pivotal contemporary art exhibition in the global art landscape. We are joined by Clive Kellner, Executive Director of the Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation, whose career spans 25 years and holds significant involvement in South Africa's art history since the country's democracy in 1994, notably, and pertinent to this conversation, with the historic Johannesburg Biennale. Also with us is Ame Bell, Director at David Krut Projects and curator of the South African Pavillion at the 2022 Venice Biennale.

Clive brings insights into the historic 1995 and 1997 Johannesburg Biennale, reflecting on the impact, significance and challenges of these events. Ame shares her experiences and perspectives from curating the South African Pavillion in Venice, offering insights into the contemporary dynamics and global influence of biennales.

Together, we explore the meaningful contributions and limitations of biennales within both local and global contexts, from accessibility and representation to the broader impact of large-scale exhibitions on the global stage and the diverse participants they attract.

Season 4 is made possible by the generous support of the PESP funding by National Arts Council and Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

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Production for Season 4:
Anthea Pokroy (Project Lead & Host)
Nkgopoleng Moloi (Co-Host)
Niamh Walsh-Vorster (Project Manager)
The Audio Room & This Audio is Visual (Sound Engineers)
Alyx Carolus (Social Media)
Sanele Balintaba (Design)