The Venice Biennale remains one of the most influential and politically charged platforms in the global art world. Founded in 1895, the Biennale has evolved into a major international exhibition where nations present contemporary artistic visions through official national pavilions. The 61st edition of the Biennale, running from May 9 to November 22, 2026, opened under unusual political pressure. Curated around the theme “In Minor Keys,” the exhibition has already faced controversy linked to jury resignations, debates over national participation, and growing international conflicts.
Against this backdrop, the sudden withdrawal of the Islamic Republic of Iran has become one of the most discussed developments surrounding this year’s exhibition.
Iran Will Not Participate in Venice Biennale 2026
Organizers of the Venice Biennale confirmed on May 4 that Iran would no longer participate in the exhibition. In a short official statement, La Biennale di Venezia announced that “the Islamic Republic of Iran will not participate” in the 61st International Art Exhibition. No detailed explanation was provided.
According to news from The Art Newspaper and Artnet News, Iran’s withdrawal came only days before the Biennale’s public opening, intensifying speculation about the political and diplomatic pressures surrounding the event.
Several international publications connected the withdrawal to escalating instability in the Middle East and renewed fears of regional conflict. Reports noted heightened tensions involving Iran, the United States, Israel, and maritime security concerns near the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks.
However, it is important to note that neither Iranian authorities nor Biennale organizers officially confirmed a direct political reason for the withdrawal. Any broader geopolitical interpretation remains speculative beyond publicly available statements.
Politics and the 2026 Biennale
Iran’s withdrawal is not the only controversy surrounding this year’s Biennale. The 2026 edition has witnessed growing debate over national representation, censorship, and political accountability within international cultural events.
Recent criticism has focused on the participation of countries involved in ongoing conflicts, including Russia and Israel. Protest actions, public letters from artists, and institutional disagreements have contributed to an increasingly tense atmosphere in Venice.
The Biennale’s international jury also resigned shortly before the opening, adding to concerns over political divisions affecting one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions.
