During the inauguration of the 60th International Exhibition at the Venice Biennale, the Russian Pavilion in the Biennale Gardens was filled with artists, billionaires, collectors, and curators. The presence of tycoon Len Blavatnik and entrepreneur Inna Bazhenova highlighted how the art world intersects with business in Russia.
Among those present were prominent figures like Olga Sviblova, director of Moscow Museum for Multimedia Art Mamm, and Daria Pushkova, director of Russian Center for Science and Culture in Rome. The exhibition “Scoletta dell’arte: Digital Reform” showcased digital works by contemporary artists alongside classics. The event emphasized how technology has transformed art in the digital age.
However, war loomed over the art scene as artists like Andrey Bilzho reflected on themes of war and repression through his exhibition “oddlander.” Many Russian artists and curators have left their homeland due to political unrest. Marat Gelman is one such artist who has found refuge in Berlin. These individuals’ absence highlights how difficult times can make it challenging to create art freely.
Despite this turmoil, exhibitions like “Uzbekistan: Avant-garde in the desert,” curated by Silvia Burini at Cà Foscari, continue to showcase Russian creativity and expression. The presence of Russians in Venice as creators, collectors or enthusiasts demonstrates that despite adversity, creativity thrives.
