ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Porn Star and Catholic Church Clash at 2026 Venice Biennale

opinion-review · 2026-05-12

The opening week of the 2026 Venice Biennale was dominated by a former porn star and the Catholic Church, according to a diary by Roisin Agnew. The piece highlights the juxtaposition of spirituality and sex appeal at the event, with the author warning attendees to avoid falling into the lagoon. The Biennale, a major contemporary art exhibition held every two years in Venice, Italy, continues to provoke with its blend of sacred and profane themes.

Key facts

  • The 2026 Venice Biennale opening week featured a former porn star and the Catholic Church as central attractions.
  • Roisin Agnew wrote a diary about the event for Ocula Magazine.
  • The diary is titled 'Spirituality and Sex Appeal: On the Ground at the 2026 Venice Biennale'.
  • The author humorously warns readers not to fall into the lagoon.
  • The Biennale is held every two years in Venice, Italy.

Entities

Artists

  • Roisin Agnew

Institutions

  • Ocula Magazine
  • Venice Biennale
  • Catholic Church

Locations

  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources