Ilya and Emilia Kababov: Venetian Diary & Note Persistenti

Venetian Diary, the project by Ilya and Emilia Kabakov that places the people of Venice at its centre, unfolds across both the Biennale and the city.
A new piece is added to Venetian Diary, the participatory project by Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, curated by Cesare Biasini Selvaggi and Giulia Abate, which will be presented in Venice on the occasion of the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. This intimate mapping of the city will extend from the piano nobile of Ca’ Tron (May 9 – June 28, 2026) to the Biennale Gardens, within the Venetian Pavilion, entering into a dialogue with Note persistenti, the exhibition project curated by Giovanna Zabotti with Denis Isaia and Cesare Biasini Selvaggi. 

“Venice is filled with people working tirelessly to preserve not only the city itself, but also a sense of community we rarely encounter in the digital age. At a time where political, economic, and religious differences seem insurmountable, Venice is a beacon of hope for what can happen when neighbors support each other and share the responsibility of caring for their home for future generations” 

Emilia Kabakov