ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Florentina Holzinger Hangs Naked in Bell at Austrian Pavilion, Venice Biennale

exhibition · 2026-05-08

For the 61st Venice Biennale, Austrian artist Florentina Holzinger has staged a provocative performance at the Austrian Pavilion. Since May 5, during press previews, she has been suspending herself naked upside down inside a large metal bell, making it vibrate solely through her body movements. The work, titled "SEAWORD," runs from May 9 to November 22, 2026. Holzinger's performance critiques climate change, patriarchy, conservative morality, and religion, particularly Catholicism. Known for her insolent and media-savvy style, she continues her exploration of these themes through performance and opera.

Key facts

  • Florentina Holzinger performs at the Austrian Pavilion for the 61st Venice Biennale
  • Performance titled 'SEAWORD' runs May 9 to November 22, 2026
  • Holzinger hangs naked upside down inside a large metal bell
  • She makes the bell vibrate using only her body movements
  • The work critiques climate change, patriarchy, conservative morality, and religion
  • Performance began on May 5 during press previews
  • Holzinger is known for insolent, provocative, and media-savvy performances
  • The piece targets Catholicism specifically

Entities

Artists

  • Florentina Holzinger

Institutions

  • Austrian Pavilion
  • La Biennale di Venezia

Locations

  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources