Resignations Follow Khaled Sabsabi’s Withdrawal from Venice Biennale 2026

Australia’s cultural sector is in upheaval following Creative Australia’s decision to withdraw Khaled Sabsabi from representing the country at the 2026 Venice Biennale. The move has sparked significant backlash, leading to resignations and raising concerns over artistic freedom, government influence, and transparency in the arts sector.

The decision has made headlines through the Australian art community, with many questioning the motivations behind Sabsabi’s removal. As high-profile figures step down in protest, the controversy highlights broader issues of censorship, political interference, and the future of Australian representation on the global stage.

Khaled Sabsabi: The Artist at the Center of the Storm

Khaled Sabsabi, a prominent Australian artist known for his politically and socially engaged work, was originally selected to represent Australia at the 2026 Venice Biennale. With a career spanning decades, his work explores themes of identity, migration, and conflict, often drawing from his Lebanese-Australian heritage.

His selection was widely praised as a progressive and thought-provoking choice. However, Creative Australia’s abrupt decision to withdraw his representation has raised alarms. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, but speculation points to political pressure and concerns over the content of his work.

In the wake of Sabsabi’s removal, key figures within Creative Australia have resigned, most notably Michael Dagostino, a respected arts leader whose departure underscores the gravity of the situation. Other resignations have followed, reflecting deep dissatisfaction within the organization and beyond.