• The Russian pavilion at the Venice Art Biennale remains closed to the public but broadcasts music on site.
  • From today until Friday, ten music groups perform daily, recording pieces for playback throughout the Biennale.
  • Russia thus circumvents European sanctions; the pavilion is physically closed but music is audible.
  • Among the performers is the Toloka Ensemble, presenting works from the Belgorod region on the border with Ukraine.
  • Russian activists and artists in exile have launched counter-initiatives, including an exhibition of imprisoned Russian artists.
  • This is the first time Russia participates in the Biennale since the invasion of Ukraine, sparking controversy.