Pussy Riot and pro-Palestinian activists shake up the Venice Biennale opening (VIDEO)
The Venice Art Biennale, the oldest and one of the most prestigious international contemporary art exhibitions, began on May 6th with protests against Russia's return after four years of war with Ukraine. New demonstrations are announced for the closing of the vernissage, when the Alliance "Art Not Genocide" (ANGA) has announced a protest action due to Israel's participation, writes SEEcult.org
TL;DR
- The Venice Art Biennale began with protests against Russia's participation after its invasion of Ukraine and against Israel's participation.
- The international jury resigned, and traditional awards like the Golden and Silver Lion will be replaced by 'audience lions' based on visitor votes.
- Activists, including Pussy Riot and Femen, protested outside the Russian pavilion with slogans such as 'Blood is Russian art' and 'Biennale of evil.'
- Pro-Palestinian activists demonstrated against Israel's participation, calling for an end to 'genocide.'
- The European Union withdrew funding for a future Biennale edition, and Italy's Minister of Culture boycotted the opening due to Russia's presence.