Australia's plans for its representation at the 2026 Venice Biennale have unraveled following the dismissal of chosen artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino. The move came after a critical article raised concerns over Sabsabi's artwork involving omitted references to Hassan Nasrallah, the former Hezbollah leader. Creative Australia stated that ongoing debate surrounding the selections presented a risk to public support for the country's artistic community. The organization announced a review of the selection process, emphasizing its commitment to freedom of artistic expression while maintaining unity within the community.
Creative Australia has made the unanimous decision not to proceed with the artistic team chosen for the Venice Biennale 2026, due to community concerns.
Creative Australia is an advocate for freedom of artistic expression, but the board believes a prolonged and divisive debate... poses an unacceptable risk to public support.
The board's decision reflects a commitment to uniting Australians through art and ensuring the artistic community's public backing, overshadowed by controversy.
The controversy arose from Khaled Sabsabi's use of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in his art, igniting significant public backlash.
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