The decision by Creative Australia to rescind Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino’s selection for the Venice Biennale 2026 has sparked an outcry today within the Australian arts community. Just days after the announcement of their participation, the organisation withdrew its support, citing concerns over a "prolonged and divisive debate". The move follows political scrutiny over Sabsabi’s past works, particularly those engaging with Middle Eastern politics.
Who is Khaled Sabsabi?
Sabsabi is a Lebanese Australian artist known for his evocative mixed-media and video installations, and has spent decades exploring identity, migration, and conflict through art. His practice, which is deeply intertwined with his personal history and the broader socio-political landscape, has been exhibited worldwide, from the Adelaide Biennial of Art to the Marrakech Biennale.
In response to the decision, Sabsabi took to social media, expressing his deep disappointment and reaffirming his commitment to artistic freedom. “Art should not be censored,” he wrote. “Artists reflect the times they live in.”
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Why was he removed?
The controversy stems from parliamentary debate over Sabsabi’s past work, particularly a 2007 video installation that included footage of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. During Question Time, Senator Claire Chandler questioned Foreign Minister Penny Wong about the artist’s suitability to represent Australia on a global stage, prompting Wong to state that she was previously unaware of the details of his work and would seek further information.
Sabsabi, who began his creative journey in Western Sydney’s hip-hop scene before transitioning to visual arts in the 1990s, has long addressed themes of displacement and resilience. He has consistently maintained that Middle Eastern artists cannot avoid engaging with the conflicts that shape their histories.
What has been the response to their removal?
The decision to remove Sabsabi and Dagostino has ignited widespread condemnation from fellow artists, curators, and cultural commentators. A collective statement signed by James Nguyen, Hayley Millar Baker, Jenna Mayilema Lee, and curators Tony Albert and Tamsin Hong called on Creative Australia to reinstate the duo. “Revoking support for the selected artist and curator is a direct affront to artistic independence, freedom of speech, and the moral courage that underpins the Australian arts community,” the statement read.
Creative Australia, led by chair Robert Morgan and a board that includes esteemed figures such as Wesley Enoch, Larissa Behrendt, and Lindy Lee, defended its decision, asserting that while it remains a staunch advocate for artistic expression, the controversy surrounding the selection posed “an unacceptable risk to public support for Australia’s artistic community.” The board also announced a review of the selection process for future Venice Biennale representatives.
