Since February, numerous pro-Palestinian activists have attempted unsuccessfully to urge the Venice Biennale, renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious international art exhibitions, to exclude Israel due to its actions in the Gaza conflict.
However, despite these efforts, when the Biennale’s international pavilions opened for a media preview on Tuesday, the Israel pavilion remained closed at the request of the artists and curators representing Israel.
A sign taped to the door of the pavilion states, “The artist and curators of the Israeli pavilion will open the exhibition when a ceasefire and hostage release agreement is reached.”
Artist Ruth Patir, chosen to represent Israel, expressed her reluctance to open the exhibit she has been working on, stating, “I hate it, but I think it’s important.”
The ongoing conflict has cast a shadow over major cultural events, with artists responding at prominent gatherings worldwide. Amidst this backdrop, the decision to close the Israel pavilion highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the issue.
The controversy surrounding Israel’s participation in the Biennale began in February when the Art Not Genocide Alliance published an open letter calling for a ban over Israel’s actions in Gaza. The letter garnered support from various artists and activists.
In response to the closure of the Israel pavilion, the Art Not Genocide Alliance criticized the move as a publicity stunt. Despite the criticism, the decision to keep the pavilion closed underscores the ongoing debate surrounding Israel’s presence in international cultural events.
