More Australian art world figures condemn decision to cancel Khaled Sabsabi’s Venice Biennale project – The Art Newspaper

australia’s Venice Biennale Representation in Crisis

The 2026 Venice Biennale, set to showcase Australia’s artistic talent on the world stage, has been plunged into turmoil after Creative Australia, the national arts funding body, abruptly cancelled the appointment of the chosen artist and curator due to public outcry over the artist’s past work.

Khaled Sabsabi, a respected Australian artist, and Michael Dagostino, a prominent curator, were chosen to represent Australia in Venice in February. Their selection, which was met with initial enthusiasm, quickly spiraled into controversy following reports in the Australian newspaper that Sabsabi’s past works included imagery of Hassan Nasrallah, the former leader of Hezbollah, and footage of the 9/11 attacks.

The newspaper raised questions about whether exhibiting such work would damage Australia’s image at the prestigious international event. Conservative senator Claire chandler even questioned Foreign minister Penny Wong about the artist’s selection in a senate hearing.

“A prolonged and Divisive Debate”

Facing mounting pressure and a potential public backlash, Creative Australia released a statement on February 14, stating that the cancellation was necessary to avoid a prolonged and divisive debate that could harm the Australian arts community.

“Creative Australia is an advocate for freedom of artistic expression and is not an adjudicator on the interpretation of art,” the statement read. “Though, the board believes a prolonged and divisive debate about the 2026 selection outcome poses an unacceptable risk to public support for Australia’s artistic community and could undermine our goal of bringing Australians together through art and creativity.”

Sabsabi and Dagostino expressed their disappointment in a statement, saying that their proposed work, intended to unite audiences, was now under threat.

“We intended to present a transformational work in Venice, an experience that would unite all audiences in an open and safe shared space,” their statement read. “The artistic team is still committed to presenting this work on a global platform and will seek community support to make this happen.”

Outpouring of Support

The decision to withdraw the commission sparked widespread criticism from prominent figures in the Australian arts scene. Elizabeth Ann Macgregor, former director of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, stressed the importance of understanding artistic intent rather than making hasty ideological judgments based on isolated images.

She highlighted the irony and complexity of Sabsabi’s work, pointing out that the 9/11 reference in his video wasn’t meant to glorify the attack but rather used a George W. Bush quote as a commentary.Simon Mordant, a well-known art philanthropist, resigned from his ambassadorial role at the Biennale and withdrew his financial support, condemning the situation as a “tragic mess” and calling for the resignation of Creative Australia’s leadership.

Fellow artists,including Archie Moore,the Australian winner of the 2024 Golden Lion for Best National Participation,and Ellie Buttrose,curator of the award-winning 2023 pavilion,joined the chorus of dissent,criticizing the lack of clarity and due process in the decision-making process. The National Association for the Visual Arts also condemned the move, accusing Creative Australia of yielding to political pressure and misrepresentation.

the five artistic teams shortlisted for the Venice Biennale, including the original choice of Sabsabi and Dagostino, have vowed to refuse the commission if offered to them, further escalating the crisis and raising serious questions about Creative Australia’s handling of the situation.

This unprecedented controversy threatens to cast a shadow over Australia’s participation in the prestigious 2026 Venice Biennale, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic freedom, public perception, and political pressure in the world of contemporary art.

What are the main arguments for and against Creative Australia’s decision to cancel the appointment of Khaled Sabsabi and Michael Dagostino?

Australia’s Venice Biennale Crisis: An Interview with Art Critic and Historian, Dr. Amelia Hart

Navigating the Storm: Artistic Freedom vs. Public Perception

In the wake of the unprecedented controversy surrounding Australia’s 2026 Venice Biennale depiction, Archyde News sought the insights of esteemed art critic and historian, Dr. Amelia Hart. Dr. Hart, a long-time observer of the Australian art scene, shares her perspectives on the crisis and its implications for the future of Australian art on the global stage.

Creative Australia’s U-turn: A Misstep or a Necessary Move?

Archyde: Dr. Hart, let’s start by discussing Creative Australia’s decision to cancel the appointment of Khaled Sabsabi and Michael dagostino. Was this a necessary move to protect Australia’s image, or a misstep that stifled artistic freedom?

Dr. Hart: It’s a complex issue, but I believe Creative Australia underestimated the public’s appetite for nuanced artistic discourse. By canceling the appointment, they’ve inadvertently created a divisive debate and raised serious questions about their decision-making process. Art should provoke thought and conversation, even if it’s uncomfortable. Suppressing it only fuels further controversy.

Artistic Intent vs. Public Perception

Archyde: Elizabeth Ann Macgregor argued for understanding the intent behind sabsabi’s work. How meaningful is it for the public to grasp the artist’s intent when engaging with controversial art?

Dr. Hart: It’s crucial. Art is a form of communication, and like any language, it requires context and understanding to be appreciated. Sabsabi’s work is a case in point. His use of controversial imagery is not an endorsement, but a commentary on contemporary society and politics. We must engage with art, warts and all, to fully appreciate its message.

Lessons Learned: A Path Forward for Australian art

Archyde: Given the fallout, what lessons can we draw from this crisis, and how can Australia move forward to ensure a successful Venice Biennale in 2026?

Dr. Hart: we need open dialog, transparency, and a robust vetting process. We should also encourage our artists to engage with challenging themes, knowing that their work will be supported and defended. As for 2026, I hope we’ll see a united front, with artists, curators, and funding bodies working together to present a compelling, thought-provoking narrative to the world.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Art in Divisive Times

Archyde: In a world grappling with division and misunderstanding, what role can art play in bridging gaps and fostering understanding?

Dr. Hart: Art has the power to challenge our perspectives, to humanize the ‘other,’ and to foster empathy. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. In divisive times, we need art more than ever. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about our shared humanity.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on the Venice Biennale controversy? How can Australia navigate the delicate balance between artistic freedom and public perception? Share your views in the comments below.