What's Happening?
Nav Haq, a curator and writer based in Antwerp, has been appointed to curate the fourth Lahore Biennale. Haq currently serves as the Associate Director at M HKA – Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp, where he oversees the artistic program. The Lahore Biennale has faced
several challenges in its history, including the resignation of its first artistic director, Rashid Rana, in 2017, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its second edition. The third edition, curated by John Tain, was delayed due to political unrest in Lahore. Haq's exhibition is scheduled to open in spring 2027. His curatorial approach is informed by values of coexistence and progressive internationalism, reflecting the conditions of a multipolar 21st-century world.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Nav Haq as curator for the Lahore Biennale is significant as it highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize and enhance the cultural landscape of Lahore amidst past challenges. The Biennale serves as a crucial platform for contemporary art in South Asia, and Haq's leadership could bring renewed focus and international attention to the event. His experience and vision may help navigate the complexities of organizing a major cultural event in a city with both historical significance and contemporary vibrancy. This development could also influence the broader art community by fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration.
What's Next?
Nav Haq's curatorial plans for the Lahore Biennale are expected to unfold over the coming years, with the exhibition set to open in spring 2027. The focus will likely be on building a program that resonates with both local and international audiences, leveraging Lahore's rich cultural heritage. Stakeholders in the art community, including artists, institutions, and patrons, will be watching closely to see how Haq's vision materializes and how it might impact the future of the Biennale and the region's cultural scene.
