The Venice Biennale returns for its 61st edition, running from May 9 to November 22, 2026. The event, often called the Olympics of the art world, comprises a central exhibition curated by an artistic director, national pavilions from dozens of countries, and officially approved Collateral Events. This year's edition was to be curated by Koyo Kouoh, a celebrated Cameroonian-born curator, but she died at 57 in May 2025 before announcing the title and theme, “In Minor Keys.” The Biennale organization has moved forward with a team of five curatorial advisers executing her vision. The event is overseen by president Pietrangelo Buttafuoco and is expected to draw over 800,000 visitors.
The Venice Biennale matters because it remains one of the most prestigious and influential events in the contemporary art world, identifying rising stars and setting global artistic trends since 1895. This edition is particularly significant as it proceeds posthumously under Koyo Kouoh's vision, highlighting issues of curatorial legacy and representation—only three Biennales have been organized by women and only one by an African-born curator before Kouoh. The event also drives substantial tourism and commerce for Venice, and its history reflects broader shifts in international art exhibitions, including interruptions due to world wars and evolving organizational practices.