Bana Kattan Appointed Curator for UAE’s Representation at the 61st International Venice Biennale
In a significant development for the arts community in the United Arab Emirates, the National Pavilion of the UAE has announced the appointment of Bana Kattan as the curator for the country’s representation at the esteemed 61st International Venice Biennale, scheduled for 2026. Kattan, who currently holds the position of curator and associate head of exhibitions at the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, emerges as an influential figure whose work resonates deeply with the socio-political and historical narratives of the region.
This appointment was made by a committee comprising notable individuals from various sectors, including government officials, museum professionals, and academics. Such a decision underscores the importance of a collective effort in promoting the UAE’s cultural identity on an international platform. Kattan’s artistic vision will be pivotal in crafting a narrative that not only highlights the UAE’s vibrant contemporary art scene but also enriches the discourse surrounding the region’s complex histories.
Born and raised in Abu Dhabi, Kattan possesses an intrinsic understanding of the local culture and its artistic evolution. Her curatorial focus often bridges the gap between generations of artists, allowing for a multifaceted exploration of contemporary issues through the lens of visual arts. Commenting on her appointment, Kattan expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse array of artists, stating, “Having worked extensively in the region and alongside a wide range of multigenerational and transdisciplinary artists from the Arab world, I look forward to contributing my experience to a project that reflects the UAE’s vibrant artistic landscape while engaging with broader histories, complexities, and conversations.”
Before her pivotal role at Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Kattan garnered experience at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, where she curated exhibitions for prominent artists, including Wafaa Bilal, Maryam Taghavi, and Mona Hatoum. Her expertise in handling significant artworks and navigating complex artistic narratives uniquely positions her to curate the pavilion in Venice. The upcoming exhibition will also feature a dedicated publication, anticipated to provide further insights into the themes explored through the showcased works.
The UAE’s pavilion at the Venice Biennale is not merely a display of art; it is a platform for dialogue that encapsulates the nation’s historical and cultural evolution. Kattan’s exhibition, titled “In Minor Keys,” will open its doors to the public from May 9 through November 22, 2026. Curated by Koyo Kouoh, this exhibition promises to be a collective score—a symphony composed in collaboration with artists, poets, performers, and filmmakers who push the boundaries of artistic expression. Kouoh describes the project as an intricate melody that invites audiences to navigate the pieces either in isolation or in harmonious aggregation.
Laila Binbrek, the director of the National Pavilion UAE, articulated her endorsement of Kattan’s appointment, stating that it “reflects the Pavilion’s driving purpose: to shed light on underexplored narratives by bringing together diverse artistic perspectives that reflect the UAE’s unique blend of histories and communities.” This sentiment aligns with the broader mission of the Venice Biennale, which seeks to engage audiences in critical conversations around contemporary art and its socio-political implications.
Kattan’s selection as curator is emblematic of the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its presence on the global art stage. This commitment is paired with a dedication to fostering dialogue about the rich tapestry of narratives that make up the nation’s identity. By spotlighting both local and international perspectives, the Biennale serves as a catalyst for artistic innovations and cultural exchanges that resonate beyond borders.
As the 2026 Biennale approaches, anticipation builds for Kattan’s unique artistic lens to illuminate the UAE’s contributions to contemporary art. In a rapidly evolving global landscape, her ability to weave together diverse artistic voices will likely set a precedent for future exhibitions and collaborations, establishing the UAE not only as a participant in the global art arena but as a vital contributor to its narrative.
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