Going by its history, location and the vibrant local culture, the Venice Biennale is the mother of all biennales. In spite of the controversy regarding the participation of Israel and Russia due to the ongoing wars, the subsequent resignation of the awards jury, the European Union pulling its financial support, the withdrawal of 100 artists from awards consideration, and a 24-hour strike forcing 27 of 100 pavilions to either partially or fully shut down, the Biennale refuses to lose its lustre.