Creative Australia Reinstates Khaled Sabsabi for 2026 Venice Biennale After Review

In a significant reversal, Creative Australia has reinstated Lebanese-Australian artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino as Australia's representatives for the 2026 Venice Biennale. This decision follows an independent review that identified procedural missteps in the initial rescission of their selection.

The controversy began in February 2025 when Creative Australia announced Sabsabi and Dagostino's selection for the prestigious international art exhibition. Shortly thereafter, the organization rescinded the selection, citing concerns over potential divisive debates stemming from Sabsabi's past works, notably a 2007 video installation featuring Hassan Nasrallah, the late leader of Hezbollah. This decision was met with significant backlash from the arts community, leading to resignations within Creative Australia and public criticism from artists and cultural institutions.

An independent review by consultancy firm Blackhall & Pearl identified procedural missteps in the decision-making process. Consequently, on July 2, 2025, Creative Australia reinstated Sabsabi and Dagostino as Australia's representatives for the Venice Biennale. Acting Chair Wesley Enoch publicly apologized for the "hurt and pain" caused by the initial decision.

Sabsabi, born in Tripoli, Lebanon, fled the civil war in 1976 and has since been based in Sydney. His artistic practice often explores themes of identity, displacement, and cultural conflict. The Venice Biennale, often termed the "Olympics of the art world," is a prestigious international art exhibition held biennially in Venice, Italy. Australia's participation is managed by Creative Australia, which oversees the selection and support of artists representing the nation.

This controversy highlights ongoing debates about artistic freedom, censorship, and the role of cultural institutions in navigating politically sensitive content.