Artists Reinstated for Venice Biennale After Political Controversy

Creative Australia has reinstated artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino as Australia's representatives for the 2026 Venice Biennale, following an independent review and public apology for their earlier removal.

The reinstatement, announced on July 2, 2025, reverses the board's February decision to rescind the duo's selection due to political concerns over Sabsabi's past works. An independent review highlighted the organization's lack of preparedness for potential controversy, leading to the decision to reinstate Sabsabi and Dagostino and issue a public apology.

Khaled Sabsabi, a Lebanese-Australian artist with a 35-year career in video, mixed media, and installation art, often explores themes of identity, politics, and ideology. His work aims to foster empathy and connection among diverse audiences. Sabsabi has exhibited in over 90 solo and group exhibitions worldwide, including the Adelaide Biennial of Art, the Biennale of Sydney, the Shanghai Biennale, and the Marrakech Biennale.

Michael Dagostino is an esteemed curator and arts administrator. He was the founding director of Parramatta Artists’ Studios, later served as Director of Campbelltown Arts Centre, and is currently the Director of the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney. Dagostino is known for his artist-driven approach, emphasizing access, equity, and authorship in his curatorial practice.

In February 2025, Creative Australia announced Sabsabi and Dagostino as the artistic team to represent Australia at the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia in 2026. However, less than a week later, the board unanimously voted to rescind their selection. The decision was influenced by political concerns, particularly regarding Sabsabi's past works, such as the 2007 video installation "You," which features the late Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The board cited fears of a "prolonged and divisive debate" that could undermine public support for Australia's artistic community.

The withdrawal prompted widespread criticism from the arts community and beyond. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young stated that the rescinding of Sabsabi’s appointment had brought Australia “international shame” and opened the door to “artists being used as political fodder.” The International Council of Museums (ICOM) Australia expressed shock and disappointment, urging Creative Australia to reverse its decision and uphold artistic freedom. Additionally, the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) emphasized the importance of supporting creative freedom and providing platforms for diverse voices, calling for the reinstatement of Sabsabi and Dagostino.

In response to the backlash, Creative Australia commissioned an independent review by governance advisory firm Blackhall & Pearl. The review found that Creative Australia was unprepared for the potential controversy surrounding the selection, particularly given the broader social and political context at the time. The report highlighted a series of missteps and missed opportunities in the decision-making process, leading to the conclusion that the organization had failed to adequately anticipate and manage the risks associated with the appointment.

Following the review, Creative Australia reinstated Sabsabi and Dagostino on July 2, 2025. Acting Chair Wesley Enoch publicly apologized for the hurt and pain caused by the initial decision, acknowledging the series of missteps and misunderstandings that led to the withdrawal. Sabsabi and Dagostino expressed their gratitude for the reinstatement, stating that the decision renewed their confidence in Creative Australia and allowed them to move forward with optimism and hope.

The controversy surrounding Sabsabi's selection and subsequent reinstatement underscores the delicate balance between artistic freedom and political sensitivities. It highlights the challenges cultural institutions face in navigating complex social and political landscapes while upholding the principles of free expression. The incident also raises questions about the role of art in society and the extent to which artists should engage with contentious or provocative subjects.

The reinstatement of Sabsabi and Dagostino marks a significant moment in Australia's cultural landscape, reflecting a commitment to artistic freedom and the importance of learning from past missteps. As preparations for the 2026 Venice Biennale continue, the arts community remains vigilant in ensuring that such controversies are handled with greater foresight and sensitivity in the future.