Icelandic mosque closed by Venice authorities?
The Mosque by artist Christoph Büchel
The Icelandic pavilion at the Venice Biennale, a work called The Mosque by artist Christoph Büchel installed in a a deconsecrated 10th century church has been shut by Venetian officials, according to Venetian newspaper La Nuova.
According to the newssite, the decision was made today and is effective immediately. Reasons for closing the pavlion are cited as the use of the pavilion as a place of worship and overcrowding.
Venetian authorties had demanded all papers regarding the exhibit, especially concerning the deconsecration of the church. and said that if the documents weren't satisfactory the pavilion would be closed.
The Icelandic Art Centre has not yet made an announcement on the matter. The Venice Biennale takes place until November.
Update: The Icelandic Art Centre has told mbl.is that The Mosque has not been closed despite articles stating otherwise in Italian media. Björg Stefánsdóttir at the Icelandic Art Centre adds that a response from the Venetian authorites regarding permits and documentation for the artwork has not arrived.
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