Ecuador's Pavilion at the 2026 Venice International Art Exhibition will showcase 'Tawna & Óscar', a project that seeks to question the prevailing methods of organizing life, knowledge, and territory through contemporary art. The initiative, curated by Manuela Moscoso and supported by the Ecuadorian Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art (MAAC), brings together the Tawna collective and Ecuadorian artist Óscar Santillán. It aims to position art as a practice of care, providing a space for observation, listening, and generating relationships.

The exhibition does not aim to establish a singular narrative or a closed definition of identity; rather, it is conceived as a listening space that encourages slowing down and engaging with forms of knowledge often excluded from dominant cultural frameworks. Rooted in Andean-Amazonian territories marked by linguistic, cultural, and ecological diversity, the project emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing various perspectives and epistemologies that contribute to a richer understanding of existence.

By presenting 'Tawna & Óscar' at one of the most prestigious art venues globally, Ecuador aims to advocate for the inclusion of marginalized voices and perspectives in the art world. This initiative not only showcases Ecuadorian artistry but also serves as a platform for broader discussions about knowledge systems and cultural intersections, challenging audiences to reconsider how life and knowledge are perceived beyond conventional paradigms.