Venice Biennale opens amid mounting controversy

The 2026 Venice Art Biennale has opened amid mounting controversy, with protests, political backlash and the resignation of the event's entire international jury overshadowing the launch of the world's most prestigious contemporary art exhibition.

The event's 61st edition has faced days of demonstrations over the participation of both Russia and Israel, with some protests in Venice turning tense as demonstrators clashed with police.

It follows months of debate surrounding Russia's return to the Biennale after its national pavilion was closed in 2022 when the conflict with Ukraine began.

Critics argue the reinstatement sends the wrong political message at a time of continuing global conflict.

The controversy has also caused political rifts in Brussels and Rome.

The European Commission has threatened to suspend millions of euros in funding for the event, while the Italian government has distanced itself from the decision to allow Russia's involvement, saying it was made independently by the Biennale Foundation.

Just days before the opening ceremony, the Biennale's entire international jury resigned in protest.

In a statement, jurors said they could not participate in awarding countries whose leaders face allegations of war crimes.

Key prizes will now be determined by a public vote.

Despite the unrest, thousands of visitors have continued to attend exhibitions across Venice, with many acknowledging the complexity of the debate.

Some visitors expressed support for the demonstrations, while others said that art should be free of politics.

The Venice Biennale is widely regarded as the most influential event on the global art calendar, bringing together artists, curators and national pavilions from around the world.

China's pavilion, "Dream Stream" is curated by Yu Xuhong.

The exhibition brings together a wide network of Chinese artists, scientists and research institutions in a multidisciplinary showcase blending visual art, science and digital culture.

This year's Biennale also serves as a tribute to Koyo Kouoh, the first African woman appointed to curate the exhibition, who died suddenly last year at the age of 57.

Kouoh had envisioned the 2026 exhibition, titled "In Minor Keys", as a platform for marginalized voices and political reflection.

That message has taken on even greater significance as geopolitical tensions dominate discussion around this year's event, reinforcing Kouoh's belief that art cannot be separated from the world around it.

The Venice Art Biennale runs until November 22.