The 61st Venice Biennale has opened its doors amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and artistic protest, marking a challenging beginning for one of the art world’s most prestigious events. The sombre atmosphere, punctuated by rain and discontent, highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding Russia and Israel, while the absence of curator Koyo Kouoh, who passed away last year, casts a shadow over the event’s proceedings.
Political Clouds Over Venice
As the inaugural events commenced on Tuesday, the Venice Biennale was shrouded in grey skies and a palpable sense of unease. The British pavilion, now helmed by the acclaimed artist Lubaina Himid, showcased a striking exhibition that critiques the UK’s colonial legacy through vivid large-scale paintings and a sound collage evoking a quintessential British summer. Yet, just a stone’s throw away, the Russian pavilion created a stark contrast, with upbeat techno music and stacks of prosecco indicating a celebration that many found distasteful given the country’s controversial participation.
This is particularly significant as Russia had been absent from the last two editions due to backlash over its invasion of Ukraine. Despite the uproar, the pavilion has returned, albeit under scrutiny, as the international art community grapples with the implications of its presence.
Resignations and Reactions
In a bold move reflecting the integrity of the art community, the jury responsible for awarding the Golden Lion prizes announced their collective resignation prior to the event. Their departure was prompted by a commitment to exclude entries from nations whose leaders face international arrest warrants, effectively barring Russia and Israel. This decision underscores the growing discontent within the art world regarding political representation and the ethical implications of participation.
Tetyana Berezhna, the Ukrainian culture minister, commended the Italian ministry of culture’s decision to restrict public access to the Russian pavilion, calling it “a meaningful step.” She emphasised the role of cultural platforms in shaping global narratives, stating, “Cultural platforms shape global perception… Every form of representation matters.”
Protest and Solidarity Among Artists
The political climate has ignited a wave of activism among artists attending the Biennale. A poignant demonstration took place in the Giardini, where approximately 60 artists participated in the Solidarity Drone Chorus, a slow procession punctuated by a collective hum, aimed at denouncing Israel’s involvement in the event. This protest was backed by an open letter signed by over 200 artists, including prominent figures such as Himid and Alfredo Jaar, advocating for the cancellation of the Israeli pavilion.
Meanwhile, the Iranian pavilion’s withdrawal from the event further illustrates the tenuous nature of international relations, as the fragile negotiations between the US and Iran appear to be unraveling.
A Tribute to Koyo Kouoh
This year’s Biennale is particularly poignant, lacking the visionary guidance of Koyo Kouoh, the Cameroonian-Swiss arts leader who passed away in May 2025. The curatorial team she assembled—comprising Marie Hélène Pereira, Rasha Salti, Gabe Beckhurst Feijoo, Rory Tsapayi, and Siddhartha Mitter—has endeavoured to honour her legacy while navigating the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape. Among the tributes to Kouoh is a striking mural by Derrick Adams, prominently displayed at the entrance to the Arsenale, serving as a reminder of her profound impact on the art world.
When questioned about the jury’s resignations, Mitter expressed respect for their stance while refraining from judgement on the situation’s morality. Salti shared that while the exhibition does not directly comment on current events, the influences of global conflicts resonate throughout the works on display.
Unexpected Highlights and Light Relief
Despite the somber tone, the opening preview revealed unexpected moments of levity. The Austrian pavilion drew large crowds eager to witness choreographer Florentina Holzinger’s captivating performance, which featured her suspended from a bell, creating a striking visual spectacle. In a more whimsical turn, a nesting seagull outside Poland’s pavilion captured the attention of visitors, with its wooden enclosure prompting some to mistake it for an artistic installation.
Why it Matters
The Venice Biennale serves as a barometer for the art world’s response to pressing global issues, and this year, the intersection of art, politics, and activism is more pronounced than ever. As artists grapple with their roles in voicing dissent and addressing historical injustices, the Biennale not only showcases artistic expression but also amplifies critical conversations about representation, morality, and the power of culture as a catalyst for change. In these turbulent times, the event stands as a testament to the resilience of the creative spirit amid adversity.
