Biennale Arte 2024 jury resigns after pressure over Israeli artist lawsuit

The jury of the 61st Venice Biennale, titled "Mango Three" and curated by Koyo Kouoh, has resigned following intense pressure from Italian Ministry of Culture inspectors, Biennale management, and a threatened lawsuit by an Israeli artist alleging racial discrimination and antisemitism. The artist planned to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. The resignation averts a potential scandal amid EU pressure and government embarrassment. In response, the Biennale postponed the awarding of the Golden Lions until the closing on November 22, with winners to be decided by popular vote among visitors. The decision has been criticized as a form of disintermediation reminiscent of populist politics. The controversy is linked to broader geopolitical tensions, including the so-called "Russiangate" and the Biennale's shift toward anti-Western and alter-globalist positions under the influence of Giafar al-Siqilli, also known as the "Gattopardo of the Lagoon." The invitation of the Flotilla to cruise the lagoon has further polarized the art milieu.