Volkswagen Group supports Education Program of the German Pavilion at the 61st Biennale Arte di Venezia
- The Volkswagen Group provides focused support for the educational and outreach activities of the German Pavilion (May 9 – November 22 2026)
- Supporting to making broad access available to one of the world's most important contemporary art exhibitions.
- The German Pavilion is of cultural and political significance to the Federal Republic of Germany.
- Curator Kathleen Reinhardt presents artworks by Henrike Naumann and Sung Tieu.
- The Volkswagen Group demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility by fostering access to contemporary art and encouraging social dialogue through its international cultural initiatives.
Wolfsburg/Venice. As a partner of the German contribution to the 61st Biennale d’Arte di Venezia, the Volkswagen Group is placing special emphasis on the Education Program and focussing its support on initiatives designed to communicate the artistic content to a broad audience. The perspectives presented at this significant international cultural event are received and reflected worldwide, contributing to valuable social discourse. The goal is to provide access to as many visitors as possible and encourage active engagement with key questions about the future. This collaboration is part of the Volkswagen Group’s international cultural engagement.
The German Pavilion of the Federal Republic of Germany at the Venice Biennale serves as both a platform for contemporary art and a space for exploring German history and identity. Kathleen Reinhardt was appointed curator this year. As part of an overarching curatorial concept, she organized the pavilion around two artistic projects by Henrike Naumann and Sung Tieu. Both artists experienced the fall of the Berlin Wall and its impact firsthand. Through their work, they explore the question of how such sweeping historical ruptures affect a society, both thematically and aesthetically, including in the long term
Kathleen Reinhardt, curator of the German Pavilion: "Through the art of Henrike Naumann and Sung Tieu, the German Pavilion in Venice transforms into a space of historical and political significance that reflects our turbulent present. Through their installations, the artists critically examine the continuities of war, discrimination, and invisibilization. In doing so, they give a strong voice to a young generation. In an era of oversimplified truths and polarizing discourse, the importance of political education becomes apparent. It helps people form their own opinions, verify facts, and distinguish truth from falsehood. Educational outreach for art and culture is central to making this possible."
Benita von Maltzahn, Head of Global Cultural Engagement at Volkswagen Group, emphasizes: "Art and culture open up spaces for new perspectives, social exchange, and shared learning. Therefore, engaging visitors with art and culture is a key component of our international commitment. We view 'Culture for All' as a concrete mission—it must not remain an empty slogan."
The Volkswagen Group's Cultural Engagement program supports initiatives that provide cultural education and opportunities for participation to a wide range of people. The Group works closely with international arts and culture institutions and stakeholders. Through these collaborations, the Volkswagen Group enables the general public to engage with a diverse array of creative ideas and works. The program paves the way for inspiring cultural projects around the world and supports organizations that contribute to diversity of our cultural landscape. By promoting culture and the arts, Volkswagen is taking responsibility for the future.
Overview:
1. Who supports the Education Program of the German Pavilion at the 2026 Venice Biennale?
The Volkswagen Group supports the Education Program of the German Pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale to strengthen access to contemporary art.
2. What is presented at the German Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2026?
Curator Kathleen Reinhardt presents works by artists Henrike Naumann and Sung Tieu focusing on German history, social change, and political themes.
3. Why is the Volkswagen Group engaged in cultural projects at the Venice Biennale?
The initiative highlights the Volkswagen Group’s social responsibility and commitment to cultural education, inclusion, and international dialogue.
