‘I have not walked this path alone’: South African artist Gabrielle Goliath on showing her cancelled Venice Biennale project outside the main event

Published on March 28, 2026

In a powerful statement against South Africa’s decision to leave its official pavilion empty at the Venice Biennale, artist Gabrielle Goliath has chosen to exhibit her cancelled project outside the main event, challenging both the art community and government policies that affect cultural representation. Goliath’s initiative highlights her commitment to amplifying voices often marginalized in contemporary discourse, particularly concerning issues related to gender, violence, and the complexities of identity.

The Venice Biennale, known as one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world, provides a platform for artists to showcase their work on an international stage. This year, however, South Africa’s absence from the official pavilion has sparked outrage among artists and critics alike. Goliath, who was originally set to present her project titled “The Gaze,” expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity, emphasizing that leaving the space vacant diminishes the country’s cultural narrative.

“I have not walked this path alone,” Goliath stated, referring to the collaborative efforts with fellow artists and communities who have inspired her work. “This project was never just about me; it is about the countless narratives that deserve to be heard. To leave our pavilion empty is to silence those stories.”

Goliath’s installation, now located outside the Biennale’s official venues, seeks to draw attention to narratives often overlooked art world. It showcases a series of multimedia works that engage with personal and societal themes, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences regarding trauma and healing. The artist has designed the exhibition as an interactive space, encouraging dialogue among visitors and fostering a sense of community.

The decision to showcase her work outside the official pavilions underscores a growing sentiment among artists that meaningful representation cannot be constrained . “Art should exist beyond the walls of official exhibitions; it should reach people where they are,” Goliath explained. Her project aims to bridge the gap between formal art institutions and the public, creating an accessible platform for discussion and engagement.

Critics of the South African government’s decision to forsake the pavilion have expressed concerns about the broader implications for the nation’s cultural diplomacy. Leaving the space unoccupied not only fails to highlight the richness of South African art but also sends a troubling message about the value placed on cultural expression. Goliath’s response to this void serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of representation and the role art plays in shaping collective identity.

As Goliath prepares for the opening of her exhibition, she reflects on the resilience of the South African art community. Her determination to share her work, regardless of institutional support, embodies the spirit of creativity that thrives even in the face of adversity. In an environment where many artists feel disillusioned, Goliath’s actions serve as a rallying cry for others to reclaim their narratives and challenge the status quo.

In conclusion, Gabrielle Goliath’s exhibition outside the Venice Biennale not only addresses the absence of South Africa’s official pavilion but also champions the need for inclusivity and representation in the arts. Her work calls for a re-evaluation of the structures that govern artistic visibility and challenges institutions to consider the voices they choose to amplify. Through her art, Goliath reminds us that every story matters and deserves to be heard.

‘I have not walked this path alone’: South African artist Gabrielle Goliath on showing her cancelled Venice Biennale project outside the main event

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