politics
May 1, 2026
The Italian government is reportedly investigating the Venice Biennale over Russia’s participation
The Italian authorities are reportedly investigating the Venice Biennale for allowing Russia to return to the prestigious art festival
TL;DR
- Italy's Culture Ministry is investigating the Venice Biennale following the announcement of Russia's return after a four-year ban.
- Russia's exhibition, 'The tree is rooted in the sky,' will be accessible to the press and elite but closed to the general public.
- The European Commission condemned Russia's return and withdrew $2.3 million in funding for the event.
- Italian inspectors found no 'irregularities' concerning sanctions compliance.
- Officials are also reviewing documents for Iran and Israel's pavilions.
- Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli will not attend the opening; the Biennale jury will exclude Russia and Israel from awards.
- Biennale Foundation chief Pietrangelo Buttafuoco compared the institution to the 'UN of art,' from which no nation should be excluded.
- Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini believes the art sphere should not be affected by politics.
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