The 61st Venice Biennale has been launched under a shroud of political tension and artistic defiance, as protests and controversies echo through the historic canals of Venice. This year’s event, which opened its doors to the public on 9 May, is marked by the absence of its curator, Koyo Kouoh, who passed away in May 2025. Her vision, however, lives on through the exhibition’s curatorial team and a vibrant array of artists confronting pressing global issues.
A Stormy Opening
The inaugural day of the Biennale was marred by grey skies and rain, setting a stark backdrop for an event that has become a stage for both art and political discourse. Lubaina Himid, representing the UK, unveiled her large-scale paintings and sound installations, reflecting on Britain’s colonial history while evoking a dream of a perfect summer day—an ironic contrast to the weather outside.
Nearby, the Russian pavilion attempted to create a celebratory atmosphere, with crates of prosecco on display and techno music blasting, despite the international outcry surrounding Russia’s inclusion in this prestigious event. After being absent from the last two Biennales due to criticism of its actions in Ukraine, Russia’s presence has ignited fresh tensions, leading to a collective resignation of the jury responsible for the Golden Lion awards. This move was prompted by their decision to exclude entries from nations whose leaders face international arrest warrants, effectively sidelining both Russia and Israel.
Protests and Artistic Responses
The political climate was further exacerbated by protests within the Giardini, the sprawling gardens housing national pavilions. Approximately 60 artists participated in the Solidarity Drone Chorus, a somber procession that conveyed their discontent with Israel’s participation. This demonstration was part of a broader call for the cancellation of the Israeli pavilion, with over 200 artists, including the esteemed Himid and Alfredo Jaar, signing an open letter advocating for change.
Tetyana Berezhna, Ukraine’s culture minister, labelled the closure of the Russian pavilion to the public a “meaningful step,” but underscored the enduring impact of Russia’s symbolic presence at the Biennale. She articulated the influence of cultural platforms in shaping global perceptions, asserting that every form of representation carries weight in the dialogue of world events.
A Curatorial Legacy
Koyo Kouoh’s passing leaves a significant void in this year’s Biennale, yet her influence remains palpable. The curatorial team—comprising Marie Hélène Pereira, Rasha Salti, Gabe Beckhurst Feijoo, Rory Tsapayi, and Siddhartha Mitter—has worked diligently to honour her vision. A notable tribute is a mural by Derrick Adams placed prominently outside the Arsenale, symbolising the ongoing dialogue between art and social justice.
When questioned about the jury’s resignation, Mitter expressed respect for their decision, while Salti highlighted the exhibition’s aim to transcend mere commentary on geopolitical issues. “Our principles and experiences of conflict are woven into the fabric of the exhibition,” she remarked, indicating a deliberate engagement with the complexities of reality that underlie artistic expression.
Highlights and Surprises
Despite the overarching gloom, there were moments of levity. The Austrian pavilion drew large crowds, captivated by choreographer Florentina Holzinger’s audacious performance, where she swung from a bell suspended high above, merging art and physicality in a stunning display. Nearby, an unexpected attraction emerged—a nesting seagull, oblivious to the art world’s chaos, provided a charming distraction for visitors, reminding everyone that life carries on amidst the fervour of human expression.
Why it Matters
The Venice Biennale is not merely an exhibition of art; it is a reflection of the current socio-political landscape, where every brushstroke and performance carries the weight of global narratives. This year’s event, steeped in controversy and mourning, challenges both artists and audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, representation, and the power dynamics at play in our world. As artistic voices rise in protest against injustice, the Biennale stands as a testament to the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity, urging us to rethink the role of art in shaping societal dialogue.
