Dark clouds, protests and resignations dampen start of 61st Venice Biennale
Summary
The 61st Venice Biennale, a major international art event, started amid political tension, protests, and rain. Key issues include the participation of Russia and Israel, jury resignations, and protests against Israel’s pavilion due to ongoing international conflicts.Key Facts
- The Venice Biennale opened with rainy weather and political protests.
- British artist Lubaina Himid presents work reflecting on colonial history.
- Russia is participating after skipping the last two events due to the war in Ukraine; its pavilion is closed to visitors but visible through windows.
- The jury resigned because they refused to judge entries from countries with leaders having international arrest warrants, affecting Russia and Israel.
- Ukraine’s culture minister sees closing the Russian pavilion as a significant move but values the continuing symbolic presence of Ukraine at the event.
- Iran withdrew its art entry amid rising tensions with the US.
- Over 200 artists protested against Israel’s participation, demanding the cancellation of its pavilion.
- The biennale is operating without its original curator who passed away in 2025, with a new team following her plans.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.