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person people calendar_today Tuesday, May 26, 2026

‘It’s Been a Long Journey’: Lebanese-Australian Artist Khaled Sabsabi on His Difficult Path to Venice

Lebanese-Australian artist Khaled Sabsabi reflects on his challenging journey to representing Australia at the Venice Biennale. The article details his personal and professional struggles, including his background as a refugee and the political controversies surrounding his work, which have shaped his path to one of the art world's most prestigious international exhibitions.

This profile matters because Sabsabi's selection for the Venice Biennale highlights ongoing debates about representation, diaspora identity, and artistic freedom in global contemporary art. His story underscores how artists from marginalized backgrounds navigate institutional recognition while confronting political scrutiny, making his participation a significant moment for both Australian and international art audiences.