24-Hour Strike Announced at Venice Biennale Over Israel's Participation

A significant protest is set to disrupt the Venice Biennale as artists and art workers announce a 24-hour strike on Friday, May 8. The action is a direct response to Israel's participation in the international art exhibition, with organizers calling for a boycott. This move comes just as the Biennale prepares to open its doors to the general public after an initial period for professionals and press.

The Art Not Genocide Alliance (AGA), a group comprising 236 artists, curators, and art professionals, is spearheading the strike. Notable figures such as Colombian artist Gala Porras-Kim and Spanish representative Oriol Vilanova are among the participants. Local art worker unions, including Biennalocene and Unione Sindacale di Base, have also pledged their support for the protest.

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The Biennale said that it will allow the strike to proceed out of respect for freedom of expression.

In response to the planned strike, the Biennale administration has stated that it will permit the demonstration, citing respect for freedom of expression. However, it was clarified that individuals working directly for the Biennale will continue their duties. The situation remains fluid, with several pavilions reportedly still deliberating whether to join the work stoppage. A march is also scheduled to take place near the Arsenale venue.

The Israeli pavilion, currently undergoing renovations, will be exhibiting at the Arsenale. The artist representing Israel, Belu-Simion Fainaru, has publicly voiced his opposition to cultural boycotts. This protest echoes similar demonstrations that occurred earlier in the week regarding Russia's participation, though the Russian pavilion will not be open to the public starting Saturday.

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I am against the cultural boycott.