Neuer Berliner Kunstverein (n.b.k.) presents the first European survey exhibition of artist, filmmaker, and activist Kiri Dalena. Known for her documentary approach, Dalena establishes a close connection to her subjects; for over 20 years, she has been a committed advocate for human rights in her native Philippines. Her work confronts issues of state persecution, political injustice, and social inequality in her home country, underscoring the importance of civil and artistic protest. Examining past and present regimes and systematic discrimination of marginalized communities, she creates installations, photographs, and video works that portray both suffering and resistance.

The exhibition at n.b.k. brings together numerous works by Dalena, which, among other aspects, offer visitors insight into the political history of the Philippines. The artist documents specific challenges her country has endured and continues to face, including tyranny, mismanagement, and climate crises. In doing so, she amplifies the voices of those who stand against injustice through acts of protest, solidarity, and public resistance. By focusing on the unity of those affected and drawing on musical and indigenous traditions, Dalena underscores methods of collective preservation and healing.

Kiri Dalena (*1975 in Manila) lives and works in Manila and Northern Mindanao. Her work has been exhibited worldwide, including at documenta fifteen (2022), Jakarta Biennale (2017), Busan Biennale (2016), Asia Pacific Triennial (2015), and Yokohama Triennale (2014). She has also been featured at venues such as Blaffer Art Museum, Houston (2024); Ateneo Art Gallery, Manila (2023, 2019, 2013); National Gallery Singapore (2022); Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum, Cologne (2021); Asia Culture Center, Gwangju (2020); Power Station of Art, Shanghai (2018); Facultad de Artes ASAB, Bogotá (2017); The National Art Center and Mori Art Museum, Tokyo (2017); Museum of Contemporary Art, Taipei (2017); and The National Museum of Art, Osaka (2015). Dalena is also active in collective initiatives, such as the film collective Southern Tagalog Exposure (2001–2008), which she co-founded, and RESBAK (Respond and Break the Silence Against the Killings; 2016–present).