21/05/2026
We extend a heartfelt congratulations to contemporary artist and cultural leader Khaled Sabsabi () and curator Michael Dagostino, who premiered not one, but two major presentations at the 61st Venice Biennale; 'conference of one’s self' in the Australian Pavilion, alongside a second installation, 'khalil', in the Biennale Arte 2026 International Exhibition ‘In Minor Keys’, curated by Koyo Kouoh, in the Arsenale.
We feel incredibly lucky to have presented a major solo exhibition with Sabsabi at The Lock-Up in 2024, and remain supportive of him as he blazes his triumphant path to the 2026 Venice Biennale. Presenting two immersive works at La Biennale is no mean feat, and few artists have been given the opportunity to stage expansive bodies of work on this significant international platform.
"As an artist with a career spanning over four decades, Khaled Sabsabi has, by faith and by practice, pursued a balance of peace against chaos and the elevation of the human spirit from human hubris."
- Alexandra Pedley, Director, The Lock-Up ('Ten Curators in support of Khaled Sabsabi: Edition 5', Artist Profile)
Three cheers from The Lock-Up, Khaled, we wish we could have been there at the opening with you! 👏
📸:
1. Khaled Sabsabi, 'conference of one’s self', 2026, Australia Pavilion at La Biennale di Venezia. Photo: Andrea Rossetti. Courtesy the artist and Milani Gallery
2. Khaled Sabsabi, 'khalil', 2026, 8 channel HD video installation with audio, 40 x 2.8 metre acrylic paint on canvas, steel, black oud scent, 64 minutes. Developed with Michael Dagostino. Photo: Andrea Rossetti. Courtesy the artist and Milani Gallery Brisbane, Australia.
