Khaled Sabsabi reinstated as Venice Biennale representative after independent review into dumping
The pair had been dumped from the prestigious art exhibition earlier this year after Creative Australia's board took the unprecedented decision to revoke their appointment.
'Today, we were officially informed by Creative Australia that we have been recommissioned as the Artistic Team for the Australia Pavilion at the 2026 Venice Biennale,' the team said in a statement.
'We accept this invitation and welcome the opportunity to represent our country on this prestigious international stage.'
Just days after their selection was made public in February and following negative media and political commentary about two of Sabsabi's historical artworks dating back nearly 20 years, Creative Australia's board rescinded their contract, saying it wanted to avoid a 'divisive debate'.
The artistic duo said the decision has renewed their confidence in Creative Australia and 'in the integrity of its selection process'.
'It offers a sense of resolution and allows us to move forward with optimism and hope after a period of significant personal and collective hardship,' their statement said.
'We acknowledge that this challenging journey has impacted not only us, but also our families, friends, the staff at Creative Australia, and many others across the broader artistic community here and abroad.
'We would not have reached this point without the unwavering support of the Australian and international creative community.'
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