Front International Cancels Future Editions of Cleveland Triennial
Cleveland's Front International has announced that it will no longer continue its triennial exhibitions, with the planned 2025 edition abruptly canceled.
End of the Cleveland Triennial
After just two editions, Cleveland's Front International has made the decision to cease operations, canceling the planned 2025 edition midway through its planning.
Front International: Cleveland Triennial for Contemporary Art started in 2018 and showcased works by internationally acclaimed artists across various locations in Cleveland, as well as Akron and Oberlin.
The triennial followed a similar model as Documenta in Germany and other noteworthy exhibitions, aiming to bring together significant talent and expand the reach of contemporary art.
Curatorial Talent and Ambitions
Front International successfully brought in renowned artists as curators for its exhibitions. The first edition in 2018 was organized by artist Michelle Grabner, followed by Prem Krishnamurthy for the 2022 edition.
Asad Raza, a prominent artist with prior experience in notable art exhibitions, was set to lead the 2025 show. However, the recent announcement revealed that the 2025 edition, as well as any future editions, will not proceed.
No specific details regarding the funding issues were provided in the announcement, but it emphasized the inability to maintain the high standards of previous editions and the responsibility to protect the investments of funders and supporters.
Closure and Commitments
Front International quietly announced the closure on its website, expressing the decision to prioritize avoiding disappointment by not compromising the quality of the exhibition.
The statement also assured contributors and stakeholders that any contributions made towards the 2025 exhibition would be returned and all obligations to staff, vendors, and contractors would be fulfilled.
Fred Bidwell, the founder and CEO of Front, and Helen Forbes Fields, the board chair, signed the statement, marking the end of an era for the Cleveland Triennial.
