Key Facts

• The Venice Biennale is a well-known international contemporary art event held in Italy.
• The international jury resigned just nine days before the event was to begin.
• The resignation happened because of controversy over Russia’s participation.
• The organizers decided not to give prizes to countries accused of crimes against humanity.
• Russia and Israel were among the countries banned from receiving prizes.
• Normally, the winners are announced at the opening, but this was delayed until the event’s closing in November.
• The situation shows how political conflicts can affect global cultural events.