Venice Biennale 2026: Six Collateral Events Reviewed

The 61st Venice Biennale, notably impacted by the absence of curator Koyo Kouoh and ongoing global conflicts, featured collateral events that provided alternative experiences. Michael Armitage's exhibition 'The Promise of Change,' curated by Jean-Marie Gallais and Hans-Ulrich Obrist, showcases grand genre paintings on bark cloth that explore themes of migration, war, and post-colonial identity, running from 29 March 2026 to 10 January 2027 at Palazzo Grassi. The Holy See Pavilion, overseen by Hans Ulrich Obrist and Ben Vickers, presents 'The Ear is The Eye of The Soul' by Soundwalk Collective, a sonic prayer walk enhanced by contributions from Patti Smith and Brian Eno. Additionally, Chris Levine's 'Higher Power' at San Clemente Palace utilizes a green laser beam (432 Hz) visible across the lagoon, while Marina Abramović's 'Transforming Energy' at Accademia Del Arte marks her first major solo show in a historic Renaissance venue. Fondazione Dries Van Noten launched 'The Only True Protest Is Beauty' at Palazzo Pisani Moretta, merging fashion with art, and Fondazione Prada's 'Helter Skelter,' curated by Nancy Spector, features works by Arthur Jafa and Richard Prince at Ca' Corner della Regina. Bulgari has also been named the exclusive partner of the Biennale for 2026-2030.