US Pavilion at Venice Biennale Faces Controversy Over Trump-Era Selection

At the 2026 Venice Biennale, the US Pavilion features sculptor Alma Allen, whose bronze and marble works were selected under revised Trump administration guidelines requiring art that 'reflects and promotes American values' and complies with anti-DEI rules. The State Department appointed a Mar-a-Lago-attending Florida pet food store owner as commissioner. Several established artists and museums declined participation due to the reduced timetable and political constraints. Allen's 20-odd sculptures, including 'Not Yet Titled' (2014) in yule marble and 'Not Yet Titled' (2020) in bronze, are described as competent but inert, suitable for a hotel lobby. The Biennale also faces geopolitical tensions: Russian artists returned in apparent violation of European sanctions, prompting boycotts and government inspections, while Israel's participation led to the resignation of the prize jury. The exhibition runs from May to November at the Giardini.