The Whitney Biennial of 2021: Reflecting Society’s Challenges, but Lacking Artistic Punch

This year’s Whitney Biennial was not up to my expectations. As an economist, I can understand that the exhibition aimed to reflect our society and economy, but it was hard for me to distinguish between what was considered art and what looked like an HR training video. However, despite my personal feelings, I can acknowledge that the show achieved its purpose.

The theme of the exhibit focused on using artificial intelligence and exploring gender rhetoric and authenticity to delve into the relationships between mind and body, identity fluidity, and the increasing fragility of our natural and constructed worlds. While some elements of the exhibition were intriguing, many critics shared my disappointment that much of the work was unimaginative and lacking in risk-taking.

In essence, the Whitney Biennial of this year served its purpose of reflecting societal and economic issues, despite falling short in terms of artistic innovation and creativity. The theme explored complex relationships between technology, gender, and authenticity, offering insight into the challenges faced by our society today. While some aspects of the exhibition were compelling, many critics and I found the overall presentation to be predictable and conservative in its approach.