New Zealand Withdraws from 60th Venice Biennale
For the first time since 2001, New Zealand will not participate with a national pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale. Creative New Zealand (CNZ) announced this decision, attributing it to financial challenges. A review conducted in 2022 labeled the initiative as 'unsustainable,' highlighting a funding shortfall, with approximately NZ$1.2 million (around £575,000) needed, of which CNZ would provide NZ$800,000. CNZ indicated that collaboration with another organization or consortium would be necessary for future involvement. Nevertheless, they expressed plans to present pavilions in the 2026, 2028, and 2030 editions. This decision follows Scotland's withdrawal in March due to similar financial issues.
Key facts
- New Zealand will not have a national pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale.
- This is New Zealand's first absence from the Biennale since 2001.
- Creative New Zealand (CNZ) confirmed the withdrawal.
- A 2022 review called the operation 'unsustainable' and funds 'inadequate'.
- NZ$1.2 million (approx. £575,000) is required for the pavilion.
- CNZ contributes NZ$800,000 of that amount.
- CNZ will seek a partner or consortium for future participation.
- New Zealand plans pavilions for 2026, 2028, and 2030.
- Scotland also withdrew in March 2024 due to financial issues.
Entities
Institutions
- Creative New Zealand (CNZ)
- Venice Biennale
- Ocula
Locations
- New Zealand
- Venice
- Italy
- Scotland
- United Kingdom