Qatar and Syria Showcase Arab Culture at Venice Biennale 2026

Jul 3, 2026

85 min

Jul 3, 2026 10:30

Venice Biennale 61st edition: Qatar and Syria deliver powerful message of humanity

## Qatar Pavilion: A Celebration of Arab Culture

The 61st Venice Biennale, running from May 9 to November 22, 2026, features a significant presence from Arab nations, with Qatar and Syria delivering impactful messages of shared humanity. The Qatar Pavilion, located in the Giardini della Biennale, is designed as a tent-like structure and serves as a hub for cultural exchange. Commissioned by Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and co-curated by Tom Eccles and Ruba Katrib, the pavilion is led by artist Rirkrit Tiravanija. It brings together artists, musicians, and chefs from across the Arab world in a multidisciplinary collaboration.

The pavilion features a film by Qatari-American artist Sophia Al-Maria, live performances by Lebanese artist Tarek Atoui, a large-scale sculpture by Kuwaiti-Puerto Rican artist Alia Farid, and a culinary program by Palestinian chef Fadi Kattan. This gathering emphasizes resilience and the power of culture to connect people. Co-curator Ruba Katrib highlights the pavilion's focus on interaction and collaboration, resonating with the Biennale's theme "In Minor Keys."

## Syrian Pavilion: A Tribute to Resilience

The Syrian Pavilion, curated by Yuko Hasegawa, presents artist Sara Shamma's immersive installation, "The Tower Tomb of Palmyra." This work honors Syria's cultural heritage and the resilience of its people. The installation centers on the ancient funerary towers of Palmyra, destroyed during conflict, and reflects on loss while conveying hope and unity.

Shamma's work explores the themes of creation and destruction, suggesting that embracing mortality can lead to a fuller life. Her installation combines architecture, painting, sound, and scent to create a reflective space. Shamma emphasizes that hope arises from transforming loss into meaningful experiences, with art playing a crucial role in processing grief and preserving dignity....

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