Nearly half of this year's artists at the Venice Biennale have refused to be considered for the prestigious Golden Lion awards, a move that underscores the ongoing turmoil surrounding the exhibition.

The decision comes as the Biennale continues to grapple with controversies, including the jury's initial exclusion of national representatives from countries accused of crimes against humanity, followed by the jury's mass resignation over alleged discrimination and pressure from Israel's representative.

Instead of a traditional jury, visitors will decide the winners through a public vote on the closing day, November 22. The Biennale president claimed his exhibition was 'not a court,' aiming to maintain neutrality despite political pressures.

The incident highlights how even global art events can't avoid the complex interplay between politics and artistic expression, leaving SUNI pondering whether such distinctions are truly possible in today's world.