2019.8.20 

Concerning the withdrawal of artworks by Park Chan-kyong and Lim Minouk (Announced on Aug 16)

Announced in Japanese on Aug 16, 2019
Translated and published in English on Aug 20, 2019

On August 3rd, following the closure of the "After 'Freedom of Expression?'" exhibition, the Aichi Triennale Organizing Committee received requests from Park Chan-kyong and Lim Minouk to withdraw their artworks.

The Aichi Triennale Organizing Committee's decision to close "After 'Freedom of Expression?'" was a measure to ensure a safe and secure setting for visitors to enjoy the Triennale. It was not an act of censorship.

The circumstances leading to the closure of the exhibition are deeply regrettable. We bear the heavy responsibility of having forced all the participating artists into this difficult situation.

It is our belief that the withdrawal of these artworks should not be understood as a symbol of our division. We addressed the possibility of this misunderstanding in a long series of discussions with both artists, during which they stood by their decision as artists. We accordingly withdrew their works from the exhibition on August 6th. (Update: As of August 13th, the status of the artworks has changed to a temporary suspension. Should the "After 'Freedom of Expression?'" exhibition re-open, the artists wish to restore their exhibits to their original state.)

The Aichi Triennale Organizing Committee respects the wishes of all the participating artists.
The committee, the artistic director and the entire Aichi Triennale team would like to extend our sincerest apologies to visitors for this lost opportunity to experience the wonderful art of Park and Lim.