Official. Unofficial. Belarus.

A landmark exhibition about the effects of authoritarianism on artistic expression. In the absence of an official Belarus pavilion, the project will celebrate art that survives in spite of state censorship and surveillance to become a powerful tool for resistance.

The exhibition, titled “Official. Unofficial. Belarus.”, is a group show presenting work by Belarusian artists who works challenge the long-standing authoritative regime in their native country.

This multi-sensory exhibition explores how art is made, censored and experienced under authoritarian power and constant surveillance. Works include paintings by Sergey Grinevich, sculptures by Vladimir Tsesler and a large sphere made of books banned in Belarus, by Nicolai Khalezin. There are two soundscapes: a composition by Olga Podgayskaya and one with recorded testimonials from recently released Belarusian prisoners. Chef Rasmus Munk presents a bespoke offering at designated times, and there are candles with a specially conceived scent of suppression. Outside the church “Surveillance Crucifixion”: a cross constructed from analogue CCTV cameras, embodying the quiet violence of being observed.

Founded in Minsk in 2005, Belarus Free Theatre is a critically-acclaimed performance non-profit that has produced more than 50 stage productions across more than 40 countries.