Almost a week after Creative Australia’s decision to drop Khaled Sabsabi and Michael Dagostino as the nation’s representative team for the 2026 Venice Biennale, the federal body has faced resignations and widespread industry criticism.
In the days following the decision, Creative Australia faced multiple resignations from its high-profile staff and representatives. Mikala Tai, the head of the organisation’s visual arts department, and program manager Tahmina Maskinyar, both resigned. Lindy Lee, artist, resigned from her Board position. Simon Mordant, who has served twice as the Australian Commissioner at the Venice Biennale, resigned from his position as an aAmbassador and withdrew his significant donation.
