Russia returns to Venice Biennale with music and free vodka
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 5
Russia returns to Venice Biennale with music and free vodka
8 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 5
At Tuesday's press preview in Venice, six Toloka Ensemble members performed in Russia's pavilion, while DJs and bartenders replaced paintings and sculptures.
The comeback drew only small crowds and no direct disruption, though activists had posted anti-Russian messages around the city.
Russia's appearance reverses the Biennale's earlier stance against artists tied to Moscow's government while the war in Ukraine continues, underscoring a bid to restore international cultural legitimacy.
Is Russia’s vodka-fueled art party a soft power win or a public relations disaster?
Amidst sanctions and jury resignations, how did Russia's controversial Biennale pavilion manage to open?
With its jury gone and funding threatened, can the Biennale survive its controversial Russian embrace?