Singaporean curator to bring ‘beauty and joy’ to the next Biennale of Sydney

Singaporean curator Low Kee Hong has been named the next artistic director of the Biennale of Sydney, set to take place in 2028. This marks a shift toward emphasizing “beauty and joy” amid recent controversies surrounding the role of contemporary art in political discourse. Low, based in Manchester and serving as creative director at Factory International’s Aviva Studios, a venue comparable to London’s Tate Modern, has been working alongside renowned artist Ai Weiwei on a groundbreaking exhibition that simulates a Chinese jail cell. The project, which required Low to assist Ai Weiwei through a 48-hour period of simulated incarceration, underscores his commitment to immersive, emotionally resonant artistic experiences. Low’s appointment follows a contentious tenure by the previous director, Emirati princess and arts curator Hoor Al Qasimi, whose leadership sparked debates over the balance between political engagement and aesthetic value. The 2026 Biennale of Sydney drew criticism for alleged bias against Jewish artists in favor of pro-Palestinian voices, culminating in an official complaint regarding a DJ’s controversial remarks at the opening night. Although the complaint was later dismissed by police, the incident highlighted tensions around the role of art in public discourse. Low, however, remains undeterred by such challenges, viewing them as essential to the integrity of contemporary art. A Singaporean-born curator with a master’s degree in sociology and experience in dance and theater, Low is described by New South Wales Arts Minister John Graham as someone who has built a career around creating “fun and joyous creative programs.” His approach emphasizes community engagement, transforming urban spaces into sites of cultural activation. From Singapore to Hong Kong to Manchester, Low has demonstrated an ability to foster inclusive, participatory art projects that bridge diverse audiences. His upcoming role at the Biennale of Sydney promises to continue this tradition, with a focus on integrating performance art and politically charged works that still prioritize emotional resonance and aesthetic appeal. Low’s background includes founding the Singapore Biennale and overseeing theatrical productions during the pro-democracy Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. One particularly memorable project involved staging the personal narratives of 100 Hong Kong residents under the cover of darkness. Participants were asked whether they missed Apple Daily, the city’s last major pro-democracy newspaper, which had been banned by authorities. Their responses, displayed on screens, elicited powerful reactions from the audience. Despite the risks, Low’s efforts resulted in critical acclaim, with a glowing review appearing shortly after the event. This experience highlights his willingness to navigate the complex intersection of art and activism, often at great personal risk. Currently, Low is exploring opportunities to bring Ai Weiwei’s Manchester exhibition to Sydney, which was anchored by the 48-hour simulation of incarceration. He is also planning collaborations between his base in Manchester and the Biennale of Sydney, including potential touring exhibitions before and after the main event. While specific details remain under consideration, Low has already outlined a thematic direction and is reaching out to artists for participation. A key component of his vision involves consulting with First Nations elders and artists in Australia, reflecting his broader interest in indigenous cultures and ecological themes, particularly native plants. As preparations for the 2028 Biennale of Sydney begin, Low’s appointment signals a renewed emphasis on balancing artistic innovation with social engagement. His work suggests that contemporary art can serve as both a platform for challenging societal norms and a space for shared human experience. With his extensive background in curatorial practice and a clear vision for the future of the Biennale, Low is poised to shape the next chapter of this prestigious international event.