Which Artists Are Headed to the Venice Biennale in 2026? | Artnet News
Artnet News
by Jo Lawson-TancredFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Venice Biennale 2026 is shaping up to be a major event in the art world, with nations unveiling their participating artists and curatorial themes. As anticipation builds for the 61st edition, controversies, political statements, and new additions dominate the discourse. Among the highlights are Israel's exclusion threats by activist groups like Art Not Genocide Alliance (ANGA), who argue against its participation until it faces justice for its actions in Gaza. Meanwhile, South Africa has withdrawn from the event following concerns over a Palestinian poet referenced in an artist's work, while Serbia is embroiled in debates over its chosen representative, painter Predrag Đaković.
Notably, several countries are making their debut at this year’s Biennale. El Salvador will showcase its first pavilion with J. Oscar Molina’s sculptural installation, *Children of the World*, honoring displaced communities. Ecuador’s pavilion is being led by the anti-colonial Tawna Collective, collaborating with artist Óscar Santillán to highlight indigenous voices from the Amazon region. Morocco is also returning to the Biennale after a delay, with Amina Agueznay focusing on celebrating Moroccan craft as a living art form.
The event will feature the first-time participation of Scotland and Wales since 2022 and 2019, respectively, while India returns after seven years with its third pavilion. Qatar is also making waves by securing a spot in the Giardini to build its first new pavilion since South Korea’s in 1995. The Biennale will run from May 9 through November 22, 2026, under the theme “In Minor Keys,” curated by Koyo Kouoh, who became the first African woman to helm the event but tragically passed away before its realization.
The Venice Biennale remains a pivotal platform for global artistic expression and cultural diplomacy. This year’s edition will highlight diverse voices, from established nations to首次 participants, while addressing pressing political and social issues. The inclusion of new perspectives, such as those from El Salvador, Ecuador, and Morocco, underscores the event’s role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/24/2026