Director of Bogotá's Museo Nacional de Colombia dies
Liliana Angulo Cortés, the director of Bogotá’s Museo Nacional de Colombia, passed away on February 21, 2026, at the age of 51. As the first Afro-Colombian to lead the museum, she was instrumental in advancing initiatives focused on historical reparations and promoting diverse narratives, particularly those of Black and Indigenous communities. Her leadership marked a significant shift in the museum's approach to its collections and exhibitions, aiming to confront colonial legacies and enhance representation.
Belarus Free Theatre to Showcase Art at Venice Biennale
The Exiled Belarus Free Theatre will present the exhibition "Official. Unofficial. Belarus." as an official collateral event at the 61st Venice Biennale, opening on May 9 and running until November 22, 2026. Curated by Daniella Kaliada and cofounder Natalia Kaliada, the exhibition will explore the impact of censorship and surveillance on art, featuring works such as site-specific paintings, sound installations, and sculptures made from prison bars. The event aims to highlight the resilience of Belarusian culture in the face of authoritarianism.
Arcola Theatre Presents 'Ukraine Unbroken' Play Series
The Arcola Theatre in London is showcasing 'Ukraine Unbroken,' a series of five short plays that reflect on the impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion. The program features a cast of seven and includes works by various playwrights, with notable performances highlighting personal stories of loss and resilience, such as the piece 'Taken,' which addresses the abduction of 20,000 Ukrainian children. Despite the emotional weight of the themes, critiques suggest that the quality of the plays varies significantly.
US Navy Launches Torpedo at Iranian Frigate Dena
The U.S. Navy launched a torpedo at the Iranian frigate Dena in international waters off the coast of Sri Lanka, marking the first use of a torpedo in combat since World War II, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack, which resulted in 87 confirmed deaths and approximately 60 individuals still unaccounted for, labeling it an "atrocity at sea." The incident has escalated tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with Araghchi warning that the U.S. will "bitterly regret" its actions.
