Johannes Phokela's Paintings Challenge Virtue and Power Structures at Venice Biennale 2026
At the Venice Biennale 2026, Johannes Phokela showcases his artwork, curated by the late Koyo Kouoh, which investigates the concept of virtue as a performance. His oil paintings, including the "The Seven Virtues" series (2024) and "Original Sin" (2024), draw on Old Master and Baroque influences to reinterpret established meanings. The pieces incorporate masks and symbols that reflect issues of access, hierarchy, and exclusion, repositioning sin from a theological perspective to an institutional one. Previously exhibited at FNB Art Joburg in 2024 and further developed in 2025, Phokela's art encourages slow contemplation. Associated with Eclectica Contemporary in Cape Town, he prefers to explore universal themes rather than being defined solely as a "South African artist."
Key facts
- Johannes Phokela's paintings are featured at the Venice Biennale 2026.
- The curatorial vision was initiated by the late Koyo Kouoh.
- Works include oil on canvas pieces from "The Seven Virtues" series dated 2024.
- "Original Sin" and "Original Sin (Inner Circle)" are part of the presentation.
- The paintings use Old Master and Baroque references to critique power structures.
- Phokela's work was previously shown at FNB Art Joburg in 2024 and expanded in 2025.
- Eclectica Contemporary, based in Cape Town and directed by Shamiela Tyer, represents Phokela.
- Phokela is rooted in Soweto and resists being labeled as a "South African artist."
Entities
Artists
- Johannes Phokela
- Koyo Kouoh
- Shamiela Tyer
Institutions
- Venice Biennale
- Eclectica Contemporary
- FNB Art Joburg
Locations
- Venice
- Italy
- Cape Town
- South Africa
- Soweto