Stateless Mind Pavilion: An Exploration of Belonging, Displacement, and Rebellion
The Stateless Mind Pavilion is more than just a space—it is a dynamic hub of interaction and dialogue. Designed to foster cross-cultural exchange and understanding, the Pavilion hosts an array of interactive events, including artist talks, workshops, performances, and panel discussions. Its mission is rooted in facilitating meaningful conversations about belonging, identity, and displacement, themes that resonate deeply through the "In Between Worlds" exhibition. Guided by the artist and curator’s narratives, visitors are invited to embark on a visual and emotional journey, discovering the complexities of existing between multiple worlds.
Origins of the Stateless Mind Pavilion
The Stateless Mind Pavilion finds its roots in the Stateless Mind Festivals, organized by Jambatan. Jambatan itself was founded in 2009 by Pia Poulsen and I, as a bridge between artistic communities in Malaysia and Denmark. This vision was brought to life when Nur Hanim Khairuddin—now the General Manager of PORT—and I co-organized the Malaysian Art Festival at the Museum of Contemporary Art Roskilde and Gallery Shambala in Copenhagen in 2010. These early efforts planted the seeds for what would later evolve into the Stateless Mind Pavilion.
After a brief hiatus, I reactivated Jambatan in 2019, organizing the Stateless Mind Festival for the first time. This resurgence brought a renewed focus on challenging conventional boundaries and celebrating the richness of cross-cultural narratives. However, the true genesis of the Stateless Mind Pavilion came during my collaboration with PORT for their participation in the 59th Venice Biennale as part of a collateral event. Interestingly, while planning this, we were informed that the term "pavilion" could not be used unless it represented a national entity. This restriction became the catalyst for the Stateless Mind Pavilion.
The Stateless Mind Pavilion was officially activated during my solo show at Kapallorek. The Pavilion also showcases an archive of activities from past Stateless Mind Festivals, providing visitors with a historical context and a deeper understanding of its evolution. This marked a pivotal moment, situating the Pavilion as an evolving platform for dialogue and exchange. It will be fascinating to see how it develops in the future, continuing to challenge norms and create spaces for meaningful interaction.
A Rebellion Against Conformity
The Stateless Mind Pavilion was born out of a spirit of rebellion. Its creation represents a refusal to adhere to institutional rules and a declaration of independence from imposed limitations. The inspiration also stems from Australian artist Richard Bell’s Aboriginal Embassy, a powerful statement I encountered at Documenta 2022 in Kassel. Bell’s work highlighted the importance of claiming space and creating platforms for marginalized voices—an ethos that aligns closely with the vision of the Pavilion.
In essence, the Stateless Mind Pavilion challenges the notion of conformity. It embodies the idea of making one’s own rules, charting one’s own path, and dictating one’s own journey. It questions the validity of man-made restrictions imposed by institutions, governments, or even familial expectations. By doing so, the Pavilion becomes a symbol of empowerment, encouraging individuals to embrace their unique identities and stories.
A Platform for Dialogue and Exchange
The Stateless Mind Pavilion serves as a sanctuary for artists, thinkers, and audiences to engage in open dialogue. By facilitating cross-cultural interactions, it provides a space for exploring the nuances of identity and the fluidity of belonging. The Pavilion’s programming—from workshops to panel discussions—offers participants a chance to share, learn, and connect in profound ways.
The Stateless Mind Pavilion stands as a testament to the power of art and dialogue in breaking barriers and building bridges. Its origins, rooted in Jambatan and inspired by acts of defiance and creativity, make it a unique and vital space for fostering understanding and connection. By embracing rebellion and rejecting conformity, the Pavilion paves the way for new possibilities, encouraging all who enter its space to envision a world where boundaries are fluid and identities are celebrated in all their complexity.
Link to previous Stateless Mind Festivals:
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