A prominent corporate sponsor of the Sydney Biennale, Australia's largest art event, has decided to withdraw its support following allegations of antisemitism tied to a DJ's remarks during the exhibition's opening festivities.
On Tuesday, the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies lodged a police complaint concerning comments made by US electronic music artist Zubeyda Muzeyyen, known as DJ Haram, at the Biennale's launch party last week. The allegations include references to a "Zio-Australian-Epstein empire" and tributes to "martyrs," which the complaint asserts could be interpreted as incitement to political violence.
In response to the situation, PwC, a management consulting firm previously identified as a "strategic partner" for the Biennale's 25th edition, announced its withdrawal, citing concerns that the event no longer offered a "welcoming and inclusive" environment for all.
A spokesperson for the Biennale expressed disappointment over this decision, emphasizing the event's commitment to serving as a unifying platform that welcomes diverse audiences.
Tensions had been escalating between the Biennale's organizers and segments of Sydney's Jewish community in the weeks leading up to the event. Just prior to the opening, the Jewish Board of Deputies opted not to attend a preview of the exhibition, pointing to "objectionable" social media posts from certain artists and a perceived lack of Jewish representation in the program.
The complaint filed by David Ossip, president of the Jewish Board of Deputies, highlighted that the phrase "Zio-Australian-Epstein empire" could incite serious contempt toward Jewish individuals, a concern outlined in the New South Wales Crimes Act.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated that the allegations would be reviewed, noting the importance of balancing hate crime laws with the value placed on free speech in Australia. He affirmed that if an offense is confirmed, appropriate actions would be taken.
The Biennale has committed to cooperating fully with the police investigation, urging anyone who believes specific comments have violated the law to report them to the authorities.
This incident occurs amidst a broader debate about freedom of expression in the art world, particularly regarding whether criticisms of Israel cross into antisemitism. Similar discussions have arisen at international exhibitions, notably at Documenta 15, where controversial artworks sparked significant backlash.
As the art community grapples with these complex issues, the future of artistic expression and inclusivity in global exhibitions remains a pivotal topic, potentially shaping the landscape of cultural dialogue for years to come.