Koyo Kouoh: Trailblazing Curator and Visionary Leader in Contemporary Art
Koyo Kouoh's profound influence on contemporary art has left an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape. Widely celebrated for her dedication to amplifying African voices, Kouoh shaped the art world through her insightful curatorial work and visionary leadership.
A Life Dedicated to Art and Advocacy
Born in Cameroon in 1967, Koyo Kouoh spent her formative years in Zurich before building her remarkable career across continents. She lived and worked between Cape Town, Dakar, and Basel. Kouoh's global perspective fueled her work and passion for promoting contemporary artists from Africa and the diaspora.
After co-founding the RAW Material Company art center in Dakar, Kouoh cemented her reputation as a key figure in shaping conversations around African art. Her insightful approach combined rigorous scholarship, a gift for languages, and an untiring dedication to her curatorial practice. She notably contributed to the curatorial teams for documenta 12 and 13 and played a significant role in the artistic programming of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.
Leadership at Zeitz MOCAA and International Recognition
In 2019, Kouoh took up the role of executive director and chief curator at Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) in Cape Town. Her vision brought critical exhibitions to the fore, including the landmark "When We See Us: A Century of Black Figuration in Painting." This monumental show explored a hundred years of Black self-representation and drew international acclaim, solidifying Zeitz MOCAA’s place in the art world.
Colleagues recognized Kouoh’s unique combination of intellectual rigor and personal warmth. As noted in ArtReview’s tribute, she was admired not only for her brilliance but also for her generosity. Her work consistently fostered a sense of community in the field and supported the growth of countless emerging talents.
Appointed Curator of the Venice Biennale 2026
Koyo Kouoh made history as the first African woman appointed to curate the Venice Biennale, the world’s foremost contemporary art exhibition. Her selection for the 61st International Art Exhibition signified a turning point, promising new perspectives for this prestigious event. Tragically, her passing in May 2025 came just as she was preparing to reveal the theme for the Biennale Arte 2026. La Biennale di Venezia expressed profound sadness at her untimely loss, underscoring her immense impact on the international art community.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Inspiration
Throughout her career, Koyo Kouoh remained steadfast in her mission to elevate contemporary African art. As highlighted in this Artnet News article, Kouoh believed the increasing visibility of African art was due not merely to outside interest, but to the efforts of African art professionals themselves. Her leadership inspired a new generation of curators and artists to pursue recognition and respect across the globe.
Koyo Kouoh’s sudden passing leaves a significant void, but her legacy endures through the countless initiatives she championed and the many lives she touched. The art world will remember her as a pioneering curator, a passionate advocate, and a visionary committed to reshaping global narratives.
Remembering Koyo Kouoh
As we reflect on Koyo Kouoh’s extraordinary contributions, her drive for excellence and advocacy for African art continue to inspire. Her bold curatorial vision has forever changed the way we see, appreciate, and understand contemporary art from Africa and beyond.