Activists from FEMEN and Pussy Riot staged a protest in Venice ahead of the Venice Biennale, using smoke flares and slogans to denounce Russia’s return. The demonstration took place as journalists gathered before the event, which runs from 9 May to 22 November, and reflects wider tensions between artistic openness and political responsibility.
Organisers said the Russian pavilion will remain closed to the public. Performances will instead be recorded and shown on screens during the exhibition.
