PinchukArtCentre is appalled by the participation of Russia in La Biennale di Venezia 2026

PinchukArtCentre, as a participant in a Collateral Event of the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, is appalled by the participation of the Russian Federation in the La Biennale di Venezia 2026.

Russia has weaponised art and exhibition-making to advance its imperial ambitions and support its military aggression against Ukraine. This position has been openly articulated by leading figures of Russia’s cultural establishment. On 25 May 2022, Mikhail Piotrovsky, Director of the State Hermitage Museum, wrote: “When the cannons speak, the muses do not remain silent.”

These are not abstract words. They are a deliberate mobilisation of culture in support of war. In May 2026, Russia’s “muses” will again sing in Venice, unless the Biennale finds the courage to act. Russian muses support the cannons aimed at Ukraine — cannons that continue to kill innocent civilians, women, and children. Mikhail Piotrovsky himself described Russia’s cultural activities abroad as part of a “cultural special operation”, which will take place on the Giardini grounds of the La Biennale di Venezia. The Biennale has not taken preventive action and has not refused Russia’s participation.

Inaction does not equal neutrality.

We therefore call upon La Biennale di Venezia to take a clear position and refuse the participation of the Russian Federation, thereby condemning the illegal war of aggression it continues to wage against Ukraine.

Sources:
Hermitage Museum — Director’s Blog.
“When the cannons speak, the muses do not remain silent.”

The Art Newspaper.
“‘No one can interfere with our offensive’: Hermitage director Mikhail Piotrovsky
compares Russian export of culture to country’s ‘operation’ in Ukraine.”

Novaya Gazeta Europe.