Dark clouds, protests and resignations dampen start of 61st Venice Biennale

<p>Russian pavilion to stay closed as outcry over Israel’s inclusion also grows – but nesting seagull provides some light relief</p><p>The 61st Venice Biennale vernissage began on Tuesday under grey clouds and rain showers, as political tension, parties and protest dominated proceedings at one of the art world’s biggest events.</p><p>Lubaina Himid, the British entrant, who has spent a career creating work that picks at her country’s colonial past, took over the UK’s pavilion with her large-scale paintings and sound collage that recalls a “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/may/05/parapet-lubaina-himid-venice-biennale-britain">perfect British summer’s day</a>”.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/may/05/venice-biennale-protests-resignations-russia-israel">Continue reading...</a>