El Salvador Announces

Historic First National

Pavilion for 61st

Venice Biennale

The Republic of El Salvador will participate for the first time with its own national pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia. This landmark presentation, titled "Cartographies of the Displaced," will feature a solo exhibition by Salvadoran-American artist J. Oscar Molina.

This marks El Salvador's official debut with its own pavilion, a significant step from its previous participation as part of the Italo-Latin American Institute (IILA). The exhibition is commissioned by Dr. Astrid Bahamond and curated by Alejandra Cabezas.

Exhibition at a Glance

Exhibition Title: "Cartographies of the Displaced"

  • Artist (Exhibitor): J. Oscar Molina

  • Venue: Palazzo Mora, Venice, Italy

  • Dates: May 9 - November 22, 2026

  • Commissioner: Dr. Astrid Bahamond

  • Curator: Alejandra Cabezas

About the Exhibition

 
Cartographies
Of the
Displaced

The exhibition explores critical themes of migration, memory, and identity. At the heart of the pavilion is J. Oscar Molina's sculptural series, "Children of the World".

This series serves as a poignant tribute to displaced and diasporic communities around the globe. The works are designed to invite viewers into a space of cross-cultural dialogue, underscoring a shared humanity in the face of global displacement.

About La Biennale di Venezia

Founded in 1895, La Biennale di Venezia is one of the world's most prestigious cultural institutions and a leading platform for contemporary artistic research. Its activities span visual arts, architecture, cinema, dance, music, and theatre. The structure includes National Pavilions, the International Exhibition, and Collateral Events, fostering a dynamic plurality of voices from around the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ)

What is El Salvador's exhibition at the 2026 Venice Biennale?
El Salvador is presenting its first-ever national pavilion, titled "Cartographies of the Displaced," a solo exhibition by artist J. Oscar Molina.

Why should collectors and institutions take note?
The pavilion represents a singular moment: first national representation of El Salvador in the Biennale, anchored by an artist engaging urgent global themes in a unique confluence of cultural moment and artistic excellence.

What is "Children of the World"?
This is Molina's sculptural series that is the heart of the exhibition, acting as a tribute to displaced and diasporic communities. J. Oscar Molina captures the strength and fragility of those forced to leave home. The series stands as a universal tribute to human resilience and the hope that survives displacement.

Why does the theme “Cartographies of the Displaced” matter today?
Because migration and displacement affect millions of people worldwide. “Cartographies of the Displaced” examines how these movements reshape identity, community, and belonging, inviting viewers to understand displacement not as statistics, but as shared human experience.

Who is the artist J. Oscar Molina?
J. Oscar Molina is a Salvadoran-American multidisciplinary artist whose work focuses on themes of diaspora, memory, and displacement. You can find his artist statement here.

What happens after the Venice Biennale ends?
Following the closing in November 2026, the pavilion and works will continue to be available via omolina.com and select institutional tours; updates about future exhibitions and acquisition opportunities will be posted