Israeli Biennale pavilion won't open till hostages released

(ANSA) - ROME, APR 16 - The Israeli pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale will not not open until a ceasefire is agreed and the hostages in the hands of Hamas are released, according to a sign that appeared outside the pavilion on Tuesday, when it was due to open. Curator and artist Ruth Patir said the exhibition was not being cancelled, explaining that the decision was "a choice of solidarity with the families of the hostages and the large Israel community that is calling for change.
    "It (the exhibition) waits inside for the moment in which hearts can be open to art again," Patir said.
    "As an artist and an educator, I against strongly against cultural boycotting.
    "But I find it extremely difficult to present a project about vulnerability for life at a time in which here is no respect for it".
    Photo: an archive image of Venice. (ANSA).