Khaled Sabsabi, a Lebanese-born Australian artist, is set to make a significant mark at the Venice Biennale this year, showcasing not one but two new works. After a tumultuous journey that included a brief dismissal as Australia’s representative, Sabsabi’s resilience and creative vision have propelled him back into the spotlight.
Initially announced in February 2025, Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino were selected to present their work at the Australia Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, often referred to as the “Olympics of the art world.” However, just days later, their invitation was rescinded by Creative Australia due to concerns over previous works and the ensuing public debate surrounding them. This decision sparked significant backlash from the arts community, which viewed it as an instance of censorship.
In July 2025, following an independent review, Sabsabi and Dagostino were reinstated. “Our reinstatement offers a sense of resolution and allows us to move forward with optimism and hope after a period of significant personal and collective hardship,” they stated. Now, the duo is preparing to present their installations not only in the Australia Pavilion but as well in the Biennale’s main exhibition, marking a historic first for an Australian artist.
Dual Exhibitions at the Biennale
Sabsabi will unveil two distinct installations, one titled “conference of one’s self” at the Australia Pavilion and another featured in the main exhibition curated by the late Koyo Kouoh, titled “In Minor Keys.” This curated exhibition aims to provoke dialogues that are yet to happen, showcasing Sabsabi’s work alongside leading international artists.
Reflecting on his journey, Sabsabi remarked, “I don’t know any artists that have done Venice twice. You only get one travel at this, so you’ve got to produce something that is appropriate to the moment.” The installations are interconnected, stemming from Sufism, the mystical dimension of Islam, and explore themes of shared humanity and collective acknowledgment.
Impact of Censorship and Artistic Expression
The journey to the Biennale has not been without challenges. Sabsabi’s initial withdrawal was part of a broader narrative in the arts community concerning censorship and political interference. This controversy has echoed through various literary and artistic events in Australia, including recent incidents involving the Adelaide Writers’ Week. The arts community’s support for Sabsabi has been vocal, highlighting the importance of artistic freedom.
“This opportunity for underrepresented voices to be included in an international conversation is what we’ve been about and will continue to be about,” Dagostino asserted. As they prepare for the Biennale, both Sabsabi and Dagostino express a commitment to using their platform for healing and renewal, stating that their work is a reflection of their shared community experiences and cultural development efforts.
Exploring Themes of Sufism and Humanity
The installation “conference of one’s self” is inspired by the 12th-century Persian poem “The Conference of the Birds” by Sufi poet Farid al-Din Attar. This poem narrates the journey of birds seeking their leader, the Simorgh, and through seven valleys representing various spiritual challenges, they ultimately discover that the leader lies within themselves. Sabsabi has added an eighth valley to symbolize completeness and wholeness, emphasizing a message of interconnectedness among all humans.
Sabsabi’s work invites viewers to “pause, to breathe, to slow down and to reflect,” aiming to foster a sense of community and shared existence. Dagostino remarks on the necessity of investing in conversations that bring people together, underscoring the relevance of these themes in today’s world.
As Sabsabi prepares for the Venice Biennale, he is also looking ahead to future presentations, including an exhibition at the Samstag Museum of Art in Adelaide in March 2027, supported by a $100,000 grant from Creative Australia. This ongoing commitment to sharing his work with a broader audience highlights his dedication to the community and the arts.
With the Venice Biennale approaching, Khaled Sabsabi’s dual presentations not only represent a personal triumph but also a broader commentary on the importance of artistic expression in the face of adversity. As the art world watches, Sabsabi’s journey continues to resonate, promising to inspire conversations about identity, spirituality, and the power of art to unite.
For those interested in following Sabsabi’s work, updates and insights will be shared through various platforms, including X/Twitter and Instagram. As the Biennale unfolds, the anticipation surrounding his installations highlights the vital role of art in fostering dialogue and understanding in an increasingly complex world.