The Gwangju Biennial Reveals Its Diverse Artist Lineup for 2026
Experience the Evolution: A Journey of Artistic Transformation
Unveiling the Curatorial Vision and Core Theme
The upcoming 16th Gwangju Biennial, scheduled for fall 2026 in South Korea, has officially released the list of more than 40 artists and groups participating in this prestigious exhibition. The announcement, initially made through e-flux, has generated significant anticipation within the global art community for this highly-regarded event.
The Influential Curator: Ho Tzu Nyen's Role
Singaporean artist and filmmaker Ho Tzu Nyen, recognized for his rapidly ascending career, was appointed as the Biennial's curator in April 2025. Ho's distinguished background includes representing Singapore at the 2011 Venice Biennale and organizing the Asian Art Biennial in 2019. The title of his exhibition, “You Must Change Your Life,” is a direct quote from the concluding line of Rainer Maria Rilke's sonnet “Archaic Torso of Apollo,” reflecting the exhibition's central exploration of continuous adaptation and metamorphosis.
A Legacy of Excellence: Gwangju Biennial's History
Since its inception in 1995, the Gwangju Biennial has solidified its reputation as one of Asia's most significant art events. Throughout its history, it has attracted renowned curators from the international exhibition circuit, including figures like Okwui Enwezor (2008), Hou Hanru (2002), and Harald Szeemann (2012). For this 16th edition, Ho Tzu Nyen is collaborating with a dedicated team of assistant curators: Che Kyongfa, Park Gahee, Brian Kuan Wood, Lee Yein, and Koyuri Sato, to bring his vision to life.
Introducing the Distinguished Participating Artists
The extensive list of artists featured in this year's Biennial includes a remarkable array of talent from around the world. Among the names are Matthew Barney, Jean Barth, James Benning, Mona Benyamin, Rossella Biscotti, CAMP, Nina Canell, Lygia Clark, Kiri Dalena & Ben Brix, A K Dolven, İnci Eviner, Angela Goh, Goldin+Senneby, Jacqueline Kiyomi Gork, Rafik Greiss, Amanda Heng, Heo Baekryeon (Gwangju Agricultural Technical High School), James T. Hong, Tehching Hsieh, Sohrab Hura, Saodat Ismailova, Volcanoes of Jeju (Jeju Stone Park), Jeong Geumhyung, E Roon Kang, Sunik Kim, Július Koller, Daisuke Kosugi, Kwon Byungjun and Park Chan-kyong, Lu Yang, May Mothers House, Melvin Moti, Nam Hwayeon, Christian Nyampeta, Bhenji Ra, Rim Dong Sik and Nature Artist Woo Pyongnam (Jongsun), Ryu Hankil, Sasaki Ken, Suzuki Akio, Ullimsanbang (Huh Ryeon, Huh Hyeong, Huh Geon, Huh Lim, Huh Moon, Hur Jin), Wang Jiahao, Wang Tuo, and Maya Watanabe. This diverse group promises a compelling and varied artistic experience for attendees.