Story perspectives

Venice Biennale Opens Amid Strikes, Jury Resignation, and Protests

5/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dozens of national pavilions, including twelve such as Belgium and the Netherlands, closed at Venice Biennale opening on May 9, 2026, after a strike by the Art Not Genocide Alliance.
The Biennale opened without Golden Lion awards because jury resigned over Israel and Russia’s participation.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said artists should not serve spokespeople for geopolitical conflicts.
About 2,000 pro-Palestinian protesters briefly clashed with police outside the Arsenale.

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Story summary

Dozens of national pavilions, including twelve such as Belgium and the Netherlands, closed at Venice Biennale opening on May 9, 2026, after a strike by the Art Not Genocide Alliance.
The Biennale opened without Golden Lion awards because jury resigned over Israel and Russia’s participation.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said artists should not serve spokespeople for geopolitical conflicts.
About 2,000 pro-Palestinian protesters briefly clashed with police outside the Arsenale.