The Art Not Genocide Alliance (ANGA) has announced a 24-hour strike and rally on May 8, the day before the 2026 Venice Biennale opens to the public, in protest of the Israeli Pavilion. ANGA, formed in opposition to Israel's inclusion in the 2024 Biennale, refers to the current Israeli presentation—featuring Haifa-based artist Belu-Simion Fainaru—as the "Genocide Pavilion." Over 200 artists, curators, and culture workers have signed an open letter demanding Israel's exclusion, and a separate action called Solidarity Drone Chorus involved 60 artists. ANGA is collaborating with local labor and culture organizations including Biennalocene, Vogliamo Tutt'altro, S.a.L.E. Docks, and Mi Riconosci.
The strike escalates ongoing tensions around the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious international art exhibitions, and highlights the growing intersection of art-world activism and geopolitical protest. The relocation of the Israeli Pavilion within the Arsenale has drawn criticism from participating artists who feel forced into complicity. This action underscores how major cultural events are increasingly becoming arenas for political debate, potentially influencing future Biennale policies and the participation of national pavilions.