Protests and boycotts disrupt Venice art festival

The 61st Venice Biennale opened on Saturday against a backdrop of geopolitical conflict. Protests and boycotts marked the launch of the prestigious international art event.

The tensions reflected broader global disputes that extended into the festival itself. Artists, visitors, and organisers faced divisions tied to international affairs.

The Biennale, held every two years in Venice, Italy, ranks among the world's most important art exhibitions. It draws artists, collectors, and critics from across the globe.

Details of the specific protests and boycotts were not fully outlined in initial reports. The scale and focus of the demonstrations remained unclear.

The disruptions underscored how geopolitical divisions increasingly affect cultural institutions and artistic gatherings worldwide.