Italy Venice Biennale

A padlock bearing inscriptions hangs from pipes inside the Israeli pavilion, which presents “Rose of Nothingness” by Belu-Simion Fainaru, during a preview of the 61st International Art Exhibition, the Venice Biennale, in Venice, Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

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Chaos marks the Venice Biennale after the jury quits over Israeli and Russian participation

Chaos marks the Venice Biennale after the jury quits over Israeli and Russian participation

Geopolitical tensions have spilled over into the Venice Biennale contemporary art exhibition. This year's edition is chaotic and contested, with no Golden Lions awarded after the jury quit in protest of Israel’s and Russia’s participation. Visitors will vote for the best national pavilion and best participant in the main show, “In Minor Keys,” with winners announced Nov. 22. Highlights include Koyo Kouoh’s focus on minority perspectives, Lubaina Himid’s exploration of life as a newcomer, the Vatican’s Mystic Garden offering spiritual respite, and Austria’s provocative performance art by Florentina Holzinger.