The British Council has announced that Lubaina Himid CBE RA will represent Great Britain at the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia in 2026. The Turner Prize-winning artist will present a significant solo exhibition of new work in the British Pavilion. Himid, known for her pioneering exploration of race, history, feminism, and identity, expressed both disbelief and joy at the opportunity, calling it a great honour and a chance to create something meaningful for diverse audiences.

Born in Zanzibar in 1954, Himid is a key figure in the Black British Art Movement, curating major exhibitions in the 1980s and 1990s to highlight Black female artists often overlooked in mainstream galleries. Now based in Preston, UK, she is an Emeritus Professor of Contemporary Art at the University of Central Lancashire. Himid’s practice combines storytelling, historical research, and vibrant visual language, pushing the boundaries of painting through sound and sculptural installation. In 2017, she became the first Black woman to win the Turner Prize, and in 2018, she was awarded a CBE for her contributions to the arts.

Emma Dexter, Commissioner of the British Pavilion, praised Himid’s ability to merge social critique with radical optimism, anticipating that her exhibition will transform the Pavilion into a thought-provoking space. While details of the exhibition are yet to be revealed, it is expected to reflect Himid’s signature themes of history, identity, and cultural memory, engaging audiences through painting, sound, and sculptural installation. The British Council, which has curated the Pavilion for nearly 90 years, continues its tradition of showcasing Britain’s creativity, with Himid joining the ranks of past exhibitors such as Lucian Freud, Bridget Riley, and Steve McQueen. The 2026 Venice Biennale will provide an international platform for Himid’s bold and innovative vision.