Venice Biennale 2026: Evocations of resilience and hope

This year’s Venice Biennale has unfolded against a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil and personal tragedy. The first major crisis came with the sudden death of its artistic director Koyo Kouoh, the Swiss-Cameroonian curator who was to become the first African woman to lead the event. Since then, the jury has resigned, the traditional awards have been replaced by a people’s choice prize, and public protests disrupted the opening week.Nevertheless, the 2026 Biennale ultimately fulfils K