ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Protests Escalate at Venice Biennale Over Russian and Israeli Pavilions

festival-fair · 2026-05-08

Since the press opening on May 6, protests have intensified at the 61st Venice Biennale, with activists demanding a boycott of the Russian and Israeli pavilions, both of which have returned for this edition. The demonstrations reflect growing tensions around the participation of these countries amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

Key facts

  • Protests have multiplied since the press opening on May 6.
  • Activists are calling for a boycott of the Russian and Israeli pavilions.
  • This is the 61st edition of the Venice Biennale.
  • Both pavilions have returned for this edition.

Entities

Institutions

  • Venice Biennale

Locations

  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources