01 Oct 2026
Creative New Zealand is aware of an open letter regarding aspects of New Zealand’s participation in the 2026 Venice Biennale, published by a collective of artists and arts workers.
We disagree with the assertions made in this letter and quoted material taken out of context.
Creative New Zealand unequivocally recognises, supports and upholds the freedom of artistic expression and speech in all forms, including at international events like the Venice Biennale.
Freedom of expression is a critical concern for artists and art workers, particularly given the current global environment, and many artists and arts workers are deeply affected by the matters covered in the open letter.
We have a long and demonstrable record of standing for, and advocating for, artistic freedom of expression, including when artworks or artists have faced political and public controversy. We will continue to advocate for those rights both in public and other contexts.
Creative New Zealand’s role is to advocate for the arts and artists but to maintain political neutrality as a Crown entity. As public servants, Creative New Zealand officials must remain politically neutral when representing New Zealand in an official capacity – as at the Venice Biennale, which is a government-to-government formal engagement.
Creative New Zealand has been explicitly clear to employees, contractors and those working on behalf of the Aotearoa New Zealand Pavilion that they retain their full rights of freedom of expression in their personal capacity. This includes freedom of speech, association and political activity such as participating in or supporting protest action. In addition, representatives were clearly advised that being politically neutral in their work is not the same as, and does not prevent, their being politically active outside work.
The guidance provided to those working on behalf of the Aotearoa New Zealand Pavilion applied to when they were representing the Pavilion or speaking in an official capacity, including in media engagements.
Creative New Zealand received and communicated official advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade that New Zealand representatives attending the Venice Biennale should avoid engaging with the Russia pavilion. This advice reflected the New Zealand government’s position condemning Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Creative New Zealand is an autonomous Crown entity; we cannot be and are not directed on cultural matters under our Act. To the extent that we engage with the Office of the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, this is as part of our routine “no surprises” communications and advice, and our obligations as a Crown entity.