Timor-Leste (Democratic Republic Of) 2026

Title: Across Words
Commissioner: Jorge Soares Cristóvão
Curator: Loredana Pazzini-Paracciani
Exhibitors: Veronica Pereira Maia, Etson Caminha, Juventino Madeira

This exhibition, marking the nation’s second participation in the Biennale Arte, explores Timor-Leste’s ancient and intricate language system.

The presentation investigates the power of language and communication, engaging with minor voices and oral history. This framework responds to the overarching theme of the 2026 Biennale, “In Minor Keys”. The included works highlight both ancient cultural traditions and emerging forms of artistic expression.

Veronica Pereira Maia is a weaver committed to traditional tais methods, while Etson Caminha and Juventino Madeira work across sound, film, video, and poetry. Their collective practice focuses on storytelling that addresses socio-political issues, ranging from historical trauma to the formation of a contemporary identity driven by younger generations. As Southeast Asia’s youngest nation and a recent member of ASEAN, Timor-Leste uses this platform to share its cultural heritage and artistic aspirations on an international stage.