'Enjoy the show. Ignore the war': Venice Biennale faces backlash after including Russia

The Venice Biennale is facing criticism for including Russia in its exhibition, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. Biennale President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco has defended the decision, accusing critics of intolerance and censorship, and stating the event should not select based on nationality. This stance contrasts with "Invisible Biennale" posters appearing in Venice, highlighting Ukrainian artists killed by Russian forces. The Russian pavilion, absent in 2022, is now showcasing experimental art, a move seen as an attempt at soft power by an autocratic state. The inclusion of Russia has sparked debate about the role of art in international conflict and the potential for cultural institutions to be used for political purposes.

Major cultural events like the Venice Biennale and Eurovision are increasingly overshadowed by political controversies. At the Venice Biennale, the opening of the Russian pavilion, despite objections and potential EU funding loss, and the Israeli pavilion, despite artist protests, highlight geopolitical tensions. The South African pavilion will remain empty due to government objections to the artist's work, and the Iranian pavilion is closed. These political disputes have led to the resignation of the biennale's awarding jury, resulting in no Golden or Silver Lion awards for the first time in decades. Similar political protests have occurred at Eurovision, indicating a broader trend of art contests becoming platforms for political expression and conflict.

The Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale was temporarily closed on its second preview day due to a protest by the activist group Pussy Riot. Approximately 40 activists, including members of Femen, gathered outside the pavilion, lit flares, played music, and shouted slogans critical of Russia's participation and its actions in Ukraine. Some protesters attempted to enter the pavilion but were stopped by police. Pussy Riot's founding member, Nadya Tolokonnikova, expressed dismay at Russia's presence at the festival amidst the ongoing conflict and urged the biennale president to reject Russian funding. The protest occurred amid a diplomatic dispute over Russia's inclusion, with reports suggesting it may violate EU sanctions. No arrests were made during the demonstration.