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The Conversation
The Conversation
Katayoun Shahandeh, Lecturer in Museum Studies, SOAS, University of London

What Iran’s absence from the Venice Biennale reveals about art and politics

Iran Biennale Venice Biennale the Venice Biennale Venice

Just days before the opening of the 2026 Venice Biennale, organisers announced that Iran would no longer participate.

A short statement posted to the Venice Biennale website on May 4 said: “With regard to the National Participations in the 61st International Art Exhibition…it has been announced that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not participate.” No explanation was given. I believe that silence is itself revealing.

Iran’s withdrawal is less a sudden decision than the result of converging geopolitical and economic pressures that are reshaping both the global art world and Iran’s place within it.

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