The 61st Venice Biennale, running from May 9th to November 22nd, is emerging as a significant moment for cultural expression and political statement. Ukraine’s participation, symbolized by the “Origami Deer” sculpture, exemplifies a growing trend of using art to respond to geopolitical conflict and demand accountability. This year’s Biennale aims to make a statement about security guarantees – or the lack thereof – and to resist the normalization of aggression.
The Symbolism of the “Origami Deer”
Created by Ukrainian artist Zhanna Kadyrova, the “Origami Deer” represents the broken security assurances given to Ukraine in exchange for relinquishing its nuclear arsenal. Originally installed in Pokrovsk, Ukraine in 2019, the sculpture was evacuated in 2024 as the frontline approached, highlighting the fragility of peace. Kadyrova explains the sculpture represents those guarantees reduced to “just a piece of paper.” The deer itself, a symbol of peace and vulnerability, adds further meaning to this message.
A Call for Unity and Resistance
Ukrainian Culture Minister Tetiana Berezhna is advocating for a unified front, urging nations to employ the Biennale as a platform to amplify their voices and demand Russia’s exclusion. “We need to be strong and unite our voices,” Berezhna stated whereas viewing the sculpture in Brussels. This sentiment is echoed by Latvian Culture Minister Agnes Lāce, who is collaborating with Baltic and other European counterparts to explore potential sanctions against individuals connected to the Russian pavilion.
Latvia’s Stance: Protest, Not Withdrawal
Latvia believes in participating in the Biennale while simultaneously protesting Russia’s presence. The Visual Arts Council of Latvia has discussed strategies for on-site demonstrations in Venice. This approach recognizes that abandoning the platform would cede it to those seeking to normalize unacceptable behavior, as emphasized by Solvita Krese, head of the Visual Arts Council: “Culture is not detached from reality and international art platforms cannot become a place where the presence of an aggressor state is normalized.”
The Broader Context: International Condemnation of Russia’s Participation
The debate surrounding Russia’s participation follows a joint statement signed by 22 (and later 3 more) European countries, calling on Biennale organizers to reconsider allowing Russia to exhibit. This demonstrates a growing international consensus that providing a platform for Russia legitimizes its actions and undermines international law. The situation is complicated by the fact that Mikhail Shvidkoy, a figure closely linked to the Kremlin, heads the Russian pavilion.
The Risk of “Ukraine Fatigue” and the Importance of Visibility
Minister Lāce expressed concern that ongoing international events could overshadow Ukraine’s story, highlighting the challenge of maintaining focus on Ukraine’s plight. Ukraine’s presence at the Biennale is about ensuring their voice remains central to the conversation.
What Does This Indicate for the Future of International Art Events?
The situation at the Venice Biennale signals a potential turning point in how international art events navigate geopolitical tensions. We may witness increased scrutiny of participants, more politically charged art, calls for ethical sponsorship, and a shift in Biennale focus towards prioritizing artistic statements that promote peace, justice, and human rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Russia be excluded from the Venice Biennale?
The decision remains with the Biennale organizers, but significant pressure is being applied for Russia to be excluded.
What is the significance of the “Origami Deer”?
It symbolizes the broken security guarantees offered to Ukraine in exchange for its nuclear weapons.
What is Latvia’s position on the Biennale?
Latvia will participate and actively protest Russia’s presence.
As the Biennale approaches, how might the ongoing geopolitical landscape influence the artistic expressions and political statements presented in Venice?
