Exhibition Still Joy – From Ukraine Into the World
The Victor Pinchuk Foundation and PinchukArtCentre have launched the exhibition Still Joy – From Ukraine Into the World as part of the official parallel program of the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Running from May 9 to August 1, 2026, the show takes place at Palazzo Contarini Polignac in Venice.
Victor Pinchuk, founder of the foundation, has voiced strong criticism of the Biennale leadership’s decision to allow Russia’s return to the event. Russia had been excluded from the Venice Biennale in both 2022 and 2024. Pinchuk pointed out that since 2022, Russia has destroyed dozens of Ukrainian museums and libraries, killed hundreds of Ukrainian artists, and taken the lives of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian citizens. He stressed that global support for Ukraine remains critical:
'I think many people in the world today need to feel the power of joy. Because many Ukrainians can share their experience and understanding of joy.'
Pinchuk also highlighted the devastating consequences of Russian aggression:
'Our terrible, insane enemy was excluded from the Venice Biennale in 2022 and again in 2024. Has Russia become better since then? Let’s think about this together. They have destroyed dozens of Ukrainian museums and libraries. They have killed hundreds of Ukrainian artists. They have killed hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians. And what did the Biennale leadership decide? To let them return to Venice. This is a terrible, shameful, and unacceptable decision.'
Significance of the Exhibition
Still Joy – From Ukraine Into the World seeks to bring elements of joy and hope during difficult times, underscoring the importance of supporting Ukraine and its cultural heritage.
Organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation, the exhibition is especially relevant amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It showcases not only the artistic achievements of Ukrainian creators but also the drive to restore cultural identity in wartime. Such initiatives help draw international attention to the challenges Ukraine faces and foster global solidarity.
In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the Venice Biennale, it's essential to consider the broader implications of the event's leadership decisions. For instance, the recent exclusion of both Russia and Israel following serious allegations by the ICC raises questions about the integrity of international art platforms. To explore the details of these significant developments, visit the latest updates on the Biennale's stance.