The 61st Venice Biennale is marked by political protests against Russia and Israel's participation, contrasting with curator Koyo Kouoh's vision of emotional connection and reflection. Despite the turmoil, pavilions like Japan's, featuring Ei Arakawa-Nash's 'Grass Babies, Moon Babies', focus on collective care and human connection. Other pavilions, such as Poland's and the Holy See's, explore sound and communication, while Austria's pavilion critiques Venice's ecological issues through provocative installations. Overall, the exhibition highlights the tension between art and global affairs.