In an audacious display of creativity and resilience, Belarus Free Theatre (BFT) is set to unveil a groundbreaking installation at the Venice Biennale, contrasting the brutal realities of life under authoritarian rule with the liberating power of art. This project, titled *Official. Unofficial. Belarus.*, is not merely an exhibition; it is an immersive experience that encapsulates the terror faced by dissidents in Belarus, where freedom of expression is met with imprisonment and violence.
A Creative Response to Oppression
Nestled in a studio on a quiet street in west Warsaw, a team of former political prisoners is hard at work, meticulously preparing materials for an ambitious installation. Among the components is a striking sphere fashioned from books banned in Belarus, including titles such as *Harry Potter* and works by Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich. The visual impact is stark, with the ball resting ominously on the claw of a bulldozer, evoking the destruction of knowledge in a repressive regime.
The installation marks a departure from BFT’s usual theatrical performances, relying instead on a diverse array of artists, including renowned chefs and composers. Rasmus Munk, a two-Michelin-star chef from Copenhagen, is crafting a dish that encapsulates the essence of confinement under totalitarian rule, while a unique scent designed to evoke the decay of a grave in Belarusian summer rounds out the sensory experience.
Co-founders Natalia Kaliada and Nicolai Khalezin, who have been central figures in the world of political theatre, describe the installation as an unprecedented venture. Despite their extensive backgrounds in challenging political narratives through performance, the transition to an art installation is both thrilling and daunting. Daniella Kaliada, their daughter and the project’s curator, navigates the complexities of working with seasoned artists, all while embodying the spirit of a generation that refuses to be silenced.
The Personal Toll of Repression
As the installation takes shape, the personal stories of the team seep into the artwork. Daniella recalls a traumatic childhood moment when masked men from the KGB arrived at their home to arrest her mother during a protest. Her recollection paints a vivid picture of terror, “I looked through the peephole and saw six men wearing masks,” she recounts, illustrating the deep-rooted fear that permeates the lives of those who oppose the regime.
Natalia Kaliada’s own experience of detention and threats of violence adds a haunting layer to the installation’s narrative. “You go numb,” she reflects, illustrating the psychological toll of living under constant threat. This shared trauma informs their artistic direction, aiming to communicate the profound sense of fear and hopelessness that accompanies life in Belarus.
The installation seeks to resonate universally, with Daniella asserting, “Belarus is a unique authoritarian combination, but we can all relate to the idea of surveillance.” The oppressive atmosphere of her homeland is mirrored in the experiences of individuals across the globe, highlighting the need for solidarity against repressive regimes.
A Platform for Protest
Set to run as a collateral event at the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, *Official. Unofficial. Belarus.* emerges in stark contrast to Russia’s official pavilion at the Biennale. The Kalidas express their dismay at the legitimisation of a state that is actively engaged in conflict and oppression. “It’s a failure of international law,” Natalia states, questioning the ethical implications of allowing such a regime to participate in a revered cultural event.
As Pussy Riot prepares to stage a protest at the Biennale, the Kalidas hope their installation will inspire dialogue and push for a reevaluation of the event’s policies on participation. “If the Olympics can change, why not the Biennale?” Daniella asserts, challenging the status quo and advocating for a cultural landscape that reflects the values of freedom and justice.
The Power of Exile and Community
The creation of this installation has been a testament to the strength of the Belarusian community in exile. Despite the challenges of living away from home, more than half of the funding has come from anonymous Belarusian businesses, showcasing a collective commitment to highlighting the plight of their homeland.
Natalia reflects on her homeland as a collection of memories rather than a physical place, a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices endured by those who oppose the regime. Yet, even in exile, the spirit of resistance remains strong, as the team continues to dream of a future where freedom reigns.
Why it Matters
*Official. Unofficial. Belarus.* stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. It is a clarion call to the world, urging us to confront the realities of authoritarianism and the necessity of artistic expression as a form of resistance. This installation not only captures the essence of the Belarusian struggle but also serves as a universal reminder of the importance of safeguarding freedoms everywhere. As the Biennale approaches, it is clear that art can transcend borders, inspire change, and give voice to those silenced by tyranny.
