Join Art Center educator Riva Blumenfeld and Executive Director Allison Valchuis for a transformative artistic exploration timed to the final days of the 61st Venice Biennale.

This curated experience offers behind-the-scenes access to the most prestigious international exhibition of contemporary art. Since 1895, the Biennale has brought together artists and curators from around the globe, filling the Giardini, Arsenale, and citywide venues with provocative, ambitious work that reflects the cultural and political moment.

In 2026, the Biennale is shaped by the vision of late curator Koyo Kouoh. Her exhibition, In Minor Keys, focuses on nuance, connection, and the power of quieter voices. Presented posthumously by her curatorial team, this edition foregrounds intimacy and restraint over spectacle, emphasizing artists whose work explores resilience, hybridity, and layered identity.

During the Biennale, Venice is taken over by the art world. Galleries, foundations, and palazzi across the city host exhibitions and events, creating a dense, exhilarating atmosphere. Riva Blumenfeld will help you navigate this abundance, offering context, commentary, and suggested viewing to ensure you see the best of the best. Her guidance will help you unpack the central exhibition, select standout pavilions, and discover extraordinary shows beyond the official sites.

In addition to immersive art experiences, this tour is designed to celebrate Venice’s creative spirit — past and present — with time to enjoy its architectural richness, local artisans, and vibrant neighborhoods. Fall is an ideal time to visit, when the air is cooler, the light is golden, and the city is quieter than the summer rush.