Objects as Memory Archives at the 2026 Venice Biennale
Koyo Kouoh's curatorial exploration for the 2026 Venice Biennale emphasizes the significance of materials and the daily practices in Africa. Featured at the Arsenale, artists Ranti Bam, Senzeni Marasela, Ayrson Heráclito, and Guadalupe Maravilla reinterpret cultural elements into modern art forms. Their creations delve into themes of social, ritual, and historical memory, moving beyond folklore. Ranti Bam presents 'Ifa Ile Oja – Black Ifa,' showcasing sculptures that act as totemic protectors. Ayrson Heráclito's 'Juntó' series features stainless steel sculptures alongside 222 drawings of Orixás. Senzeni Marasela's 'Theodorah' highlights textiles inspired by South African mining tragedies, while Guadalupe Maravilla's 'Disease Throwers' merge handmade and found materials as sanctuaries. These works function as tools for decolonization, reclaiming lost narratives.
Key facts
- Koyo Kouoh is curator of the 2026 Venice Biennale.
- Artists include Ranti Bam, Senzeni Marasela, Ayrson Heráclito, Guadalupe Maravilla.
- Works are installed at the Arsenale in Venice.
- Ranti Bam's sculptures are titled 'Ifa Ile Oja – Black Ifa'.
- Ayrson Heráclito's series is called 'Juntó'.
- Senzeni Marasela's installation is named 'Theodorah'.
- Guadalupe Maravilla's works are called 'Disease Throwers'.
- Theoretical references include Igor Kopytoff and Arjun Appadurai.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Venice Biennale
- Arsenale
Locations
- Venice
- Italy
- Arsenale
- Johannesburg
- South Africa
- Brazil
- United States
- Central America
Sources
- Artslife —