South Africa to Take Part in 2026 Venice Art Biennale

Photo Credit: Bubblegum Club

South Africa has confirmed its spot at the 2026 Venice Art Biennale – one of the most influential contemporary art showcases in the world.

South Africa (17 November 2025) – The Biennale, founded in 1895, is the Olympics of the art world.

Countries from across the globe present exhibitions through their national pavilions. It gathers the world’s top curators, critics, collectors, and institutions.

For 2026, South Africa’s pavilion will be delivered in partnership with Art Periodic South Africa (AP), an NPO that approached the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) with a proposal to fundraise and manage the project.

“For the first time, DSAC is partnering with a new approach that will see all aspects of the delivery of the event placed in the hands of a non-government organisation, which is well equipped to deliver an exhibition that will showcase the artistic richness of South African art,” shares the DSAC.

The department will continue to provide support by securing South Africa’s exhibition space in the Arsenale, one of the Biennale’s most important venues. A national Advisory is being set up to help guide long-term planning.

“The Committee will advise on long-term sustainability, partnerships, and the selection process, ensuring the Pavilion reflects the depth, diversity, and innovation of South Africa’s visual arts ecosystem,” shares the DSAC.

AP launched an open call for curatorial proposals on 7 November 2025 that invites South Africans to submit ideas for the 2026 exhibition. The deadline is 24 November 2025.

Proposals will be assessed on artistic strength, vision, and feasibility, as well as how well they align with the Biennale’s central exhibition, ‘In Minor Keys’, curated by the late Koyo Kouoh.

A second open call will welcome organisations and individuals who want to contribute through partnerships or support.