Malta Biennale 2026 To Return With 29 National & Thematic Pavilions

The Malta Biennale 2026 is set to return with an impressive programme that will feature the work of both Maltese and international contemporary artists in some of the most breathtaking locations across Malta and Gozo.

Over 3,200 applications were submitted for the Malta Biennale 2026 last year by artists wishing to participate in the second edition of the international contemporary art platform, which garnered massive traction since the launch of the first edition in 2024.

Under the artistic direction of Rosa Martínez, the second edition brings together a wide range of artistic practices through a curated programme.

The Biennale will include 29 pavilions in total, made up of eight national pavilions presented by Malta, Poland, Spain, Finland, Armenia, China, Serbia and France, alongside 21 thematic pavilions developed within the broader curatorial framework.

More than 100 artists from some 39 countries will participate in the Biennale, including those exhibiting within the pavilions; with 42 artists having been selected from an international open call that attracted over 3,200 applications from around the world.

For the coming edition, there are also important collaborations with the Gwangju Biennale, in which Malta will participate in 2026 via the national commissioner and partners of the Malta Biennale – Arts Council Malta, while another collaboration will take place with the CABININ – Çanakkale Bienali Initiative.

Furthermore, through the pavilions, there will be further collaboration and direct engagement between local and international artists from various art fields including music, theatre, and dance.

Events and exhibitions will take place across 11 historical sites and museums in Valletta, Vittoriosa, Xagħra, and Victoria, such as Fort St Elmo and MUŻA in Valletta, the Old Armoury in Birgu, and Ġgantija, Gozo, amongst others. 

The public events programme will feature over 80 events, including talks, workshops and satellite activities designed to engage audiences of different ages.

The Malta Biennale 2026 is an initiative of Heritage Malta and will run from 11 March to 29 May. Tickets are available here.

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