The Venice Art Biennale , which takes place every two years, has historically maintained that art transcends politics. But since the event is also referred to as the "Olympics of the art world" — with national pavilions acting as official, state-sponsored platforms showcasing contemporary art — global politics inevitably get entangled in the conversation. This year's event, held from May 9 to November 22, lists 100 national participations, with seven countries taking part for the first time: