Venice Biennale 2026 Opens with 'In Minor Keys' Theme

The 2026 Venice Biennale, renowned as the art world's leading international exhibition, will welcome the public starting Saturday, May 9, following press previews earlier this week. Curated by Koyo Kouoh, who passed away last year, the exhibition revolves around the theme 'In Minor Keys' and showcases the works of 110 artists and collectives. This theme encourages a reconnection with the emotional, visual, and sensory aspects of art. Highlights include the Ukrainian Pavilion featuring Zhanna Kadyrova's large metal deer sculpture 'Security Guarantees' and the Russian Pavilion, which opens for the first time since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Public art initiatives include 'Marea' by American artist Melissa McGill, created with Corte Nova residents, and a light installation by Philippe Parreno at Palazzo Diedo, where a party was held by the Berggruen Institute on Monday. The Biennale is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors throughout its extended duration.