RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia will send some artists to participate in this year's Venice Biennale, marking the country’s return to one of the world’s most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions. The event will take place in Venice, Italy, from May 9 to November 22.

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, said Indonesia’s participation is an important step to strengthen the country’s position in the international art world. He delivered the statement while opening Art Jakarta Gardens 2026 in Jakarta on Tuesday, May 5, 2026

“The first target is for us to become more visible, especially in Europe,” the minister said. He noted that the Venice Biennale remains one of the most influential platforms in global visual arts.

He compared the Biennale’s stature in the art world to the Academy Awards in the film industry. “If film has the Academy Awards, then this is the Venice Biennale,” he said.

Fadli added that Indonesia also hopes to increase global appreciation for national artworks through the event. “We want to be seen, appreciated, and to build networks,” he said.

He said stronger ties with curators, collectors, and international institutions could help develop Indonesia’s cultural ecosystem. The government also aims to host a biennale in Indonesia in the future.

The Indonesian Pavilion at Venice Biennale 2026 will carry the theme Printing the Unprinted. The concept is expected to present diverse narratives and showcase Indonesia’s creative strength.

Of the 14 participating artists, seven are emerging talents from regions including Aceh, North Sumatra, and Papua, while the remaining seven are established figures such as Agus Suwage. Fadli said their participation is intended to show the world the strength and potential of Indonesian visual arts.