tech
March 19, 2026
Almost 200 artists demand Israel's expulsion from the Venice Biennale, threatening boycott
The world's most prestigious art exhibition faces a growing crisis after nearly two hundred artists, curators, and cultural workers participating in this year's edition signed an open letter demanding Israel's exclusion due to accusations of genocide.
TL;DR
- Nearly 200 artists, curators, and cultural workers demand Israel's exclusion from the 61st Venice Biennale.
- The demand is based on accusations of genocide against Palestine.
- Signatories argue that Israel's participation legitimizes its state policies and accuse the Biennale of double standards.
- The Biennale organizers have refused to ban Israel, citing a policy against exclusion and lack of authority.
- Activists threaten a global boycott if their demands are not met.