Venice Biennale Pavilions Draw Crowds Amid Jury Resignation

The Venice Biennale, recognized as the premier contemporary art exhibition globally, showcases almost 100 national pavilions located in the Giardini della Biennale and the Arsenale, along with various sites throughout Venice. Among the prominent pavilions are those from the United States, which appointed sculptor Alma Allen following a controversial selection process, and those from Britain (Lubaina Himid) and France (Yto Barrada). New participants include Somalia and Vietnam, while Scotland and Catalonia present non-full exhibitions. This year, the Biennale jury collectively resigned before the event began, citing disagreements over the eligibility of countries engaged in conflicts, like Israel and Russia, for awards. In response, organizers implemented a "people's vote" for prizes, a decision unlikely to resolve ongoing disputes. Attendees are advised against wearing new leather shoes due to the event's demanding nature.