"From Zurich to Lisbon & London: A 1973 Swiss-Portuguese-British Journey"

The 60th International Art Exhibition—La Biennale di Venezia, one of the most prestigious contemporary art events in the world, opens its doors this year under the thematic direction of Uriel Orlow. The 2026 edition, titled “The Earth Is Not a Sphere”, promises to redefine how audiences engage with climate justice, migration, and ecological crises through art. Orlow, a Berlin-based artist known for his large-scale, participatory projects, brings a radical approach to this year’s Biennale, challenging conventional exhibition models to center marginalized voices and urgent global issues.

Orlow’s curatorial vision for the 2026 Biennale is rooted in his decades-long practice of collaborating with communities affected by environmental displacement and colonial legacies. His work often unfolds across continents, weaving together archival research, oral histories, and immersive installations. For Venice, he has announced a radical departure from the traditional pavilion structure, instead proposing a “non-exhibition” that spans multiple sites in the city, including historic venues, abandoned industrial zones, and even floating platforms on the Venetian lagoon. This approach reflects his belief that art must move beyond the confines of the museum to address systemic inequalities.

Even as the Biennale’s official program has not yet been fully revealed, Orlow has hinted at a focus on decolonial perspectives, indigenous knowledge systems, and the intersection of art and activism. His past projects, such as “The River Flows On” (2019–2021), which traced the history of the Danube River through oral testimonies and multimedia installations, offer a glimpse into his method. For Venice, he is expected to collaborate with artists, scientists, and local communities to create works that respond directly to the city’s ecological vulnerabilities, including rising sea levels and the erosion of its cultural heritage.

Thematic Focus: Climate Justice and Migration

Orlow’s thematic framework for the 2026 Biennale centers on climate justice and forced migration, two crises that have reshaped global politics in recent years. The exhibition will explore how art can serve as a tool for reparative justice, amplifying the voices of those displaced by climate change, war, and economic instability. Unlike previous Biennales that often prioritized Western canonical artists, Orlow’s selection process has emphasized Global South perspectives, with a significant portion of the participating artists hailing from Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the exhibition is Orlow’s plan to integrate live performances and public interventions into the Biennale’s programming. These events, which will seize place throughout the city, aim to create a dialogue between artists, activists, and Venetian residents. For example, a proposed project in collaboration with the Venetian Environmental Agency will use data visualization and participatory mapping to highlight the lagoon’s ecological degradation, inviting visitors to contribute their own stories of environmental loss.

Orlow has also announced a partnership with UNHCR to feature works by refugee artists, many of whom have fled conflicts exacerbated by climate change. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to challenge the migration narrative that often frames displacement as a crisis rather than a human response to systemic failure. By centering these stories, Orlow aims to reframe the Biennale as a platform for solidarity rather than mere spectacle.

Controversies and Challenges

Orlow’s unconventional approach has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that his rejection of the traditional pavilion model risks diluting the Biennale’s historical significance, while others praise his boldness in confronting the institution’s own complicity in art-world colonialism. The decision to bypass the Venice Biennale’s central pavilion—a space typically reserved for national representations—has sparked debates about the role of the state in contemporary art.

logistical challenges loom large. The Biennale’s organizers have faced criticism for the lack of clarity around funding and infrastructure for Orlow’s proposed sites. While the Italian government has pledged support, questions remain about how the city will accommodate large-scale public art projects in areas not traditionally associated with cultural institutions. Orlow’s team has assured stakeholders that sustainability will be a cornerstone of the exhibition, with a focus on zero-waste materials and carbon-neutral transportation for participants and visitors.

Despite these challenges, Orlow remains optimistic about the potential of the 2026 Biennale to serve as a catalyst for global dialogue. In a recent interview with The Guardian, he stated:

“The Earth is not a sphere—it is a living, breathing entity shaped by human actions. Our responsibility as artists is to reflect that truth, not just in our work, but in how we produce it.”

What to Expect: Key Highlights

The 2026 Biennale will officially open on May 20, 2026, with exhibitions running through November 26, 2026. While the full list of participating artists and projects remains under wraps, early announcements include:

• Site-Specific Installations: Works will be installed in unexpected locations, such as the Venetian Arsenale’s shipyards and the Isola di San Servolo, a former psychiatric hospital now used for cultural projects.
• Public Forums: Daily discussions featuring climate scientists, indigenous leaders, and artists, moderated by Orlow and his team.
• Digital Archive: An online platform where visitors can contribute their own stories of environmental change, accessible via the Biennale’s official website.
• Collaborations with Local Schools: Workshops and residencies aimed at engaging Venetian youth in the themes of the exhibition.

For visitors, the 2026 Biennale promises an experience far removed from the passive viewing of past editions. Orlow’s emphasis on participation and activism means that attendees are likely to leave Venice not only with new artistic perspectives but also with a deeper understanding of their role in the global fight for climate justice.

How to Engage with the Biennale

Planning a visit to the 2026 Biennale? Here’s what you demand to know:

• Tickets: Early-bird pricing is expected to be announced in March 2026, with standard tickets ranging from €15–€30, depending on the pass type. Students and residents of the European Union may qualify for discounts.
• Accessibility: The Biennale has committed to making all sites fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, audio descriptions, and sign language interpretation for key events.
• Sustainability: Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, with free shuttle services connecting major sites. Single-use plastics will be banned across all venues.
• Official Updates: For the latest news, including artist announcements and program details, visit the Biennale’s website: labiennale.org.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Biennale

Orlow’s curatorship marks a turning point for the Venice Biennale, which has long been criticized for its Eurocentric focus and elite associations. While the 2026 edition may not single-handedly transform the institution, it signals a shift toward inclusivity and ecological accountability in the art world. Future editions will likely build on this momentum, with increased emphasis on Global South voices and community-driven practices.

As the world grapples with the climate emergency and global displacement crises, the 2026 Biennale offers a rare opportunity to see how art can serve as both a mirror and a catalyst for change. For Orlow, the challenge is not just to create an exhibition but to reimagine the role of art in society.

With the opening just months away, all eyes are on Venice. Will this Biennale live up to its ambitious promises? One thing is certain: it will not be a traditional art fair. It will be a call to action.

Next Steps

The next official update from the Biennale’s organizers is expected on June 15, 2026, when the full list of participating artists and detailed site maps will be released. In the meantime, visitors can explore Orlow’s past projects and thematic explorations on his official website: urielorlow.com.

Have you visited a Biennale before? What themes would you like to see explored in future editions? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on Twitter. Don’t forget to follow World Today Journal for ongoing coverage of this historic event.