arts
May 7, 2026
Medaković on the Austrian Pavilion: Shock and Spectacle Have Outdone Art and Aesthetics
Secretary for Culture of the City of Belgrade Jelena Medaković stated today that it is important for Serbia to always be present at the Venice Biennale of Contemporary Art.
TL;DR
- Serbia's consistent participation in the Venice Biennale is important for showcasing relevant contemporary art and maintaining its position on the international art scene.
- The Austrian pavilion's performance, featuring a naked performer inside a bronze bell, is seen as an example of shock and spectacle overshadowing artistic and aesthetic values.
- Contemporary art has evolved to focus on conceptualism and address social issues like the green agenda, marginalized groups, and violence.
- Current global events, including wars, are pushing art back towards addressing larger historical contexts, moving away from focusing solely on everyday life.
- Despite protests and political tensions, the main interest at the Biennale remains the art, with gallerists and collectors present for business and enjoyment.
- The resignation of the Biennale's international jury after the decision to allow Russia's participation is mentioned.
- A monograph documenting Serbia's past participants in the Biennale highlights the continuity and development of the Serbian art scene since the 1930s.