Venice Biennale Arte 2026: “In Minor Keys” opens the 61st Exhibition

The Venice Biennale Arte 2026 turns the city into an expansive art route: the 61st International Art Exhibition is open from May 9 to November 22, 2026. The curatorial project “In Minor Keys”, developed by Koyo Kouoh, proposes a quieter, more intimate reading of the present through works and projects staged across Venice.

The main venues remain the Giardini and the Arsenale, complemented by initiatives in the historic center and at Forte Marghera, creating a circuit that extends beyond the traditional exhibition sites.

Curatorial approach

“In Minor Keys” emphasizes lateral and intimate viewpoints: the curatorial framework seeks to highlight stories, geographies and sensibilities often overlooked by mainstream art narratives. The exhibition preserves Koyo Kouoh’s original vision while also honoring her curatorial legacy.

What to see and visitor tips

• Dates: May 9 – November 22, 2026.
• Venues: Giardini, Arsenale, Venice historic center and Forte Marghera.
• Suggested duration: plan several days to explore the main pavilions and collateral projects at a relaxed pace.
• Itineraries: pair visits to the principal pavilions with smaller exhibitions to gain a fuller understanding of the edition.
• Accessibility: check ahead for services and access options for each site, as the exhibition is spread across different parts of the city.

Why visit

The Biennale reaffirms Venice’s role as a hub for contemporary art discourse: the 2026 edition favors attentive listening and complexity, offering visitors research-driven works that encourage reflection on identity, memory and social change.