The Venice Biennale has changed its award format following the resignation of the international jury

The organizers of this year’s International Art Exhibition have rescheduled the awards ceremony from May 9 to November 22 and replaced the traditional prizes with a public vote. 

This was announced by La Biennale di Venezia in an official statement dated April 30, 2026. The decision was made due to the jury’s recusal, as they refused to evaluate the pavilions of countries whose leaders are accused of war crimes, specifically Russia and Israel.

Instead of an expert verdict, the organizers introduced two new awards, the “Audience Choice Lions,” for the best national participation and the best participant in the main exhibition “In Minor Keys.” Visitors who personally visit both exhibition locations throughout the entire duration of the event will be able to vote. This approach is intended to ensure adherence to the principles of inclusivity and equal treatment of all participants without exception.

Following a change in the format, Russia and Israel are once again officially competing for awards, as the restrictions previously announced by the jury led by Koyo Kuo have been lifted. The organizers emphasize that the Biennale must remain a space for dialogue and freedom from censorship, despite the complex geopolitical situation. A similar postponement of the closing ceremony to the last day of the exhibition was already implemented in 2021, although the reason at that time was the pandemic.

The international jury of the 61st Venice Biennale has resigned en masse amid controversy over the participation of Russia and Israel in the exhibition.

The Italian Ministry of Culture sent inspectors to the Venice Biennale to investigate the circumstances surrounding the decision to open the Russian pavilion.

Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli officially declined to attend the opening of the 61st Venice Biennale in protest against the return of the Russian pavilion.