International Recognition for Nepali Photographer Jyoti Shrestha at Venice Biennale 2026
Nepali visual artist and photographer Jyoti Shrestha has been selected to exhibit her project Chhyake at the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia 2026, marking a significant moment for Nepal’s growing presence in the global contemporary art scene. Shrestha’s work will be showcased as part of Personal Structures, an official collateral exhibition organised by the European Cultural Centre (ECC). The exhibition will run from May 9 to November 22, 2026, across prominent historic venues in Venice, including Palazzo Bembo, Palazzo Mora, and Marinaressa Gardens.
Founded in 1895, the Venice Biennale is regarded as one of the world’s most influential contemporary art events. Although Nepal presented its first official pavilion at the Biennale in 2022, participation by Nepali artists within the wider Biennale network has remained limited. Shrestha’s selection is being seen as an important step in increasing the visibility of contemporary Nepali art on international platforms.
“Being part of the Venice Biennale feels surreal. I always dreamt of exhibiting here, and I can’t believe it’s happening,” Shrestha said. “It is important for me not only to present my work, but to contribute to Nepal’s evolving presence within global contemporary art,” she added.
Jyoti Shrestha is a Nepal-born photographer recognised internationally for her work. She was named a GUP Fresh Eyes Talent 2026 in the Netherlands and won the Blurring the Lines 2025 award organised by the European Cultural Centre, Urbanautica, and Paris College of Art. Her work has been exhibited across several countries, including Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. Shrestha is also an alumna of the Angkor Photo Workshop in Cambodia, Pathshala South Asia Media Institute in Bangladesh, and PhotoCircle Nepal.
