Dana Awartani Named Saudi Arabia's Representative for 2026 Venice Biennale

Dana Awartani, a visual artist of Palestinian Saudi descent, has been chosen to represent Saudi Arabia at the 61st Venice Biennale set for 2026. The pavilion will be curated by Antonia Carver, the director of Art Jameel, in collaboration with Saudi Iraqi curator Hafsa Alkhudairi. Awartani is the fourth woman to showcase the Kingdom at this esteemed international event. Her work, which includes paintings, sculptures, performances, and installations, is rooted in Islamic and Arab aesthetic traditions, reflecting on Middle Eastern cultural history and spatial aspects. The Visual Arts Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture is responsible for the national presentation. Carver noted that Awartani's art delves into cultural heritage and the dynamics of preservation and destruction. Dina Amin, CEO of the Visual Arts Commission, emphasized Awartani's role in highlighting the vital contributions of Saudi women in the visual arts. Awartani expressed her profound honor in representing the diverse cultural voices of Saudi Arabia. The 61st Venice Biennale will take place from May 9 to November 22, 2026, and Awartani operates studios in both New York and Jeddah.