Koyo Kouoh makes history as the first African woman curator of the Venice Biennale
- Koyo Kouoh has been appointed curator of the 61st Venice Biennale in 2026, making her the first African woman in this role.
- Her role comes amid a tumultuous political environment in Italy, raising concerns about the Biennale's direction.
- Kouoh's selection reflects a commitment to inclusivity and could redefine contemporary art curation in upcoming exhibitions.
In an unprecedented move, Koyo Kouoh has been appointed as the curator for the 61st edition of the Venice Biennale, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first African woman to hold this position. Scheduled to take place in Venice from April to November 2026, the event previously feared a shift towards nationalistic themes under the far-right government led by Giorgia Meloni. Born in Cameroon and educated in Switzerland, Kouoh currently serves as the executive director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town, where she oversees the largest collection of contemporary art on the continent. Her career includes founding the Raw Material Company, an art center in Dakar, Senegal, underlining her commitment to pan-Africanist ideals. Kouoh's appointment is seen as a strategic counter-move against the anticipated influence of conservative forces wishing to assert a populist narrative through the Biennale. Following the controversial 2024 Biennale directed by Brazilian curator Adriano Pedrosa, which celebrated themes of migration, the change in curatorial direction invites questions about the evolving role of international voices in a landscape increasingly wary of globalism. Critics had previously expressed concerns about the Biennale’s potential shift towards eurocentrism with the new leadership, particularly under Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, the recently appointed president who has connections to the right-leaning government. Nonetheless, Buttafuoco’s choice of Kouoh reflects a desire to broaden the conversation in contemporary art and provide a platform for diverse narratives. This historic appointment not only highlights Kouoh’s impressive trajectory in the art world but also signifies a continuing commitment to inclusivity and global representation in one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural exhibitions. The Venice Biennale has always aimed to provide a home for artistic innovation and dialogue, and with Kouoh at the helm, it seeks to reaffirm this legacy amidst changing political climates. Her leadership promises a rich exploration of contemporary themes, emphasizing fresh perspectives that challenge traditional Eurocentric narratives. Ultimately, the success of the 2026 event will hinge on Kouoh's ability to navigate these complexities and provide a meaningful experience for visitors from around the world.