The 2026 Venice Biennale, opening May 9 and running through November 22, features a main exhibition titled "In Minor Keys" organized by the late Koyo Kouoh, alongside 99 national pavilions. The event spans the Giardini and Arsenale sites, with concurrent shows across the city, including a group exhibition at the Fondazione Dries Van Noten, Melissa McGill's installation "Marea" at Corte Nova, Illy's artist-designed espresso cups at Giardini Reali, and a solo exhibition of Hernan Bas's paintings at Ca' Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art.
The Venice Biennale remains the definitive voice of the art world's zeitgeist, setting the pattern for biennials globally. This edition's theme of introspection, explored through works addressing environmental and social issues, underscores the Biennale's role as a barometer for contemporary art and cultural discourse, drawing international attention to Venice as a hub for artistic innovation and critical dialogue.