African Art in Venice Forum Continues After Curator Koyo Kouoh's Death
The African Art in Venice Forum, which has been held in conjunction with the Venice Biennale since 2017, will continue with its 2026 edition, even after the unexpected passing of Koyo Kouoh last year. Kouoh, the first African woman to curate the Biennale, succumbed to cancer and was a regular attendee of the forum's panels, as noted by Alexandra Topalsky, co-founder of African Art Dialogues, the entity overseeing the forum. Her death prompted discussions regarding the Biennale and its associated events. However, after consulting with previous participants, the forum's organizers chose to proceed, motivated by Kouoh's commitment to promoting dialogue on African art and representation. Her vision for the Biennale, "In Minor Keys," is being carried out by her team.
Key facts
- Koyo Kouoh, Cameroonian curator and first African woman to curate the Venice Biennale, died suddenly of cancer last year.
- The African Art in Venice Forum has taken place alongside the Biennale since 2017.
- The forum is managed by African Art Dialogues, co-founded by Alexandra Topalsky.
- Kouoh supported the forum by attending panels each year.
- After Kouoh's death, there were questions about whether the 2026 forum would occur.
- Organizers decided to proceed after consulting past participants.
- Kouoh's Biennale vision, titled 'In Minor Keys,' is being executed by her team.
- The forum focuses on African artists, curators, academics, and collectors.
Entities
Artists
- Koyo Kouoh
Institutions
- African Art in Venice Forum
- African Art Dialogues
- Venice Biennale
Locations
- Venice
- Italy