Artistic Director Selection Committee in Turmoil
In a shocking turn of events, the committee tasked with selecting the artistic director for Documenta 16, the much-anticipated 2027 edition of the art festival, is grappling with resignations. The recent departure of Indian poet and critic Ranjit Hoskote has added another layer to the already turbulent atmosphere surrounding the prestigious event.
Ranjit Hoskote’s Resignation Fuels Controversy
Hoskote’s decision to step down on Sunday follows his involvement in a letter comparing Zionism and Hindu nationalism, a move denounced by Documenta as “anti-Semitic.” The festival declared its intention to further discuss the matter with Hoskote, who argued that the accusations overshadowed the letter’s nuanced content.
The Resignation Letter
In a publicly released resignation letter, Hoskote expressed his frustration, stating, “It is clear to me that there is no room, in this toxic atmosphere, for a nuanced discussion of the issues at stake.” He criticized the committee’s attempt to define anti-Semitism, highlighting the conflation of the Jewish people with the Israeli state and the misrepresentation of sympathy for the Palestinian people as support for Hamas.
Prior Controversies and Resignations: Ettinger’s Exit
Before Hoskote’s resignation, artist, philosopher, and psychoanalyst Ettinger, based in Tel Aviv, left the committee, citing “dark times” for Israel. Despite denying a connection to the reports about Hoskote, her departure contributed to the committee’s challenges.
BDS Connection
A recent revelation about a 2019 letter signed by Hoskote, affiliated with the Indian division of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, triggered further turmoil. Documenta’s head, Andreas Hoffmann, condemned the action, emphasizing the committee members’ obligation to disassociate from BDS.
Escalating Tensions and External Influences
The controversy attracted attention beyond the art world, with Germany’s culture minister, Claudia Roth, threatening to withdraw funding from Documenta. Even the Israeli embassy in Germany weighed in, questioning the exhibition’s ability to select a curator for 2027.
Hoskote’s Response
In Hoskote’s resignation letter,he denied the “outrageous” allegations, asserting that he felt subjected to a “kangaroo court.” He clarified his stance, condemning the terror unleashed by Hamas against Israel while mourning the casualties on both sides.
Moving Forward: Committee Composition and Internal Discussions
Four committee members—Simon Njami, Gong Yan, María Inés Rodríguez, and Kathrin Rhomberg—remain. Documenta is internally deliberating the “composition” of the selection committee and outlining a timeline for appointing a new artistic director.
In the wake of these developments, Documenta 16 finds itself at a crossroads, navigating controversies that extend beyond the realm of art, putting its reputation and future in the spotlight.