A significant number of artists exhibiting at the Venice Biennale are threatening legal action if their names are not removed from the ballot for a new visitors' choice award.

Nearly 100 artists have expressed “shock” that they remain listed for the Visitors’ Lions Award, despite multiple requests to be withdrawn.

In a statement released on June 3, the artists accused Biennale organizers of “disregarding” their requests and described the “lack of responsiveness” as “highly disrespectful.” They also stated that it is “unfair to ask the public to participate in a process that has lacked transparency and accountability.” This development highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the prestigious art event.

The artists had previously sent a letter to the Biennale on May 20, demanding their removal from the ballot.

This letter was signed by over 60 artists, collectives, and estates from Koyo Kouoh‘s “In Minor Keys” main exhibition, including notable figures such as Alfredo Jaar, Zoe Leonard, and Laurie Anderson.

Additionally, artists from 39 national pavilions, including France, Austria, the Netherlands, Britain, and Ukraine, also signed the letter.

A spokesperson for the Biennale confirmed that while the names of the withdrawn artists are still listed to “guarantee all visitors their freedom of expression,” any votes cast for these artists will not be counted.

Award Controversy and Jury Resignation

The Visitors’ Lions Award was introduced on April 30 as a last-minute substitute for the Biennale’s traditional Golden and Silver Lion Awards.

These prestigious prizes were canceled after their jury resigned en masse just days before the Biennale’s opening in early May.

The artists’ decision to withdraw from the award, first announced on May 9, was made in solidarity with the jury.

The jury’s resignation followed their April 22 decision not to consider artists representing countries accused of crimes against humanity for the awards, which effectively disqualified Israel and Russia’s pavilions.

According to Italian press, lawyers for Israeli artist Belu-Simion Fainaru had contacted the Biennale, Italy’s ministry of culture, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s office, alleging discrimination.

In their May 20 letter to the Biennale, the withdrawing artists stated, “Our withdrawal is a refusal to participate in a process in which the jury was left exposed to significant personal legal liability.” They further asserted that it was the Biennale’s responsibility “to guarantee the independence and integrity of the jury’s deliberations.”

The 61st Venice Biennale has been marked by geopolitical tensions, with organizers facing considerable backlash from policymakers, participants, and activists regarding the involvement of Israel and Russia.

The winner of the Visitors’ Lion Award is scheduled to be announced when the Biennale concludes on November 22.