An Arrival, A Grounding, A Departure

The question posed at the onset––what can we learn from artists who explore rupture as an ontological tool?––is considered within the 2026 Toronto Biennial as a central exhibition, series of performances, and artist-led programs that invite embodied engagements with these practices. 

As a counterpoint to this critical investigation of rupture, a collaboratively curated gathering in the form of a convening in three acts, called An Arrival, A Grounding, A Departure, consists of dialogues, performances, meals, and moments of collectivity. Organized with many of the exhibiting artists as well as invited co-curators, the convening includes dialogues, performances, meals, and moments of collectivity that engage with six new commissions.  

An Arrival, A Grounding, A Departure brings participants together to share resources, ideas, and methodologies. It centers the voices of artists, community members, researchers, elders, scientists, community organizers, farmers, musicians, and more, asking What can we learn from those who hold and carry knowledge, including Elders, artists, musicians, growers, and how can new forms of knowledge emerge from our shared, collective experiences?

The convening is thematically grouped into three puncta that will unfold from October 16-18, 2026 across the geographies, people, and ideas that make up the place known as Toronto. Participants will share their knowledge and build intersectional and collective ways of understanding together. It is in these very personal, relatable, and polyphonic positions that Things Fall Apart is grounded.