Goldsmith and Stephenson to Represent New Zealand at La Biennale di Venezia 2025

Wellington, New Zealand – The Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa and the New Zealand Government are pleased to announce that renowned artistic duo, Goldsmith and Stephenson, will represent New Zealand at the 60th International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia, in 2025.

Goldsmith and Stephenson at the opening of their controversial exposition at the New York Guggenheim

"We are thrilled to announce Goldsmith and Stephenson as New Zealand's representatives for La Biennale di Venezia 2025," said NZ Arts Commissioner, Dame Mary Wells.  "Their innovative and thought-provoking practice embodies the unique cultural perspective and creative excellence that New Zealand brings to the global art stage."

"We are honoured to represent New Zealand on this prestigious international platform," said one half of the artistic collective and Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith. "Our installation will explore the intersection of technology, AI, nature, and human experience, reflecting on the underlying complexities of our contemporary world.  Seen through the prism of our current visual dimensions," added co-artist and Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Todd Stephenson.

Goldsmith and Stephenson have been creating critically acclaimed artworks as a duo since 2003.  Goldsmith and Stephenson have become known for their interdisciplinary practice, combining music, visual arts, and performance. Their work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and are perhaps best known for attempting to tar and feather the New York Guggenheim in 2012.  

La Biennale di Venezia is one of the world's most prestigious art exhibitions, attracting over 500,000 visitors from around the globe. The 60th International Art Exhibition will feature 90 national participations and 30 collateral events.