Unexpected ‘Free Palestine’ Message Found in Neon Artwork at Whitney Biennial Exhibition
The 2024 Whitney Biennial, titled “Even Better Than the Real Thing,” features a subtle yet powerful statement on current events. Artist Demian DinéYazhi’ showcases a neon work that intermittently displays the words “free Palestine,” sparking conversations about decolonial resistance and institutional critique. The piece encourages viewers to envision liberation amidst worsening conditions, making a poignant political statement. DinéYazhi’ draws inspiration from activist Klee Benally and addresses the complexities of being situated within settler colonial institutions. The Whitney Biennial’s history of addressing timely matters through contemporary art now faces scrutiny as DinéYazhi’s artwork brings attention to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Many are curious to see how the institution and artists will navigate this moment of reckoning.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.