Koyo Kouoh, art curator due to lead 2026 Venice Biennale, dies at 57

Koyo Kouoh, the trailblazing Swiss-Cameroonian artist and curator who became the first African woman to lead the Venice Biennale, has passed away suddenly. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa expressed deep sadness over her untimely death, noting her passion and vision in shaping the 2026 edition of the event. Known for her impactful work at Raw Material Company in Dakar, Senegal, and her leadership at MOCAA in Cape Town, Kouoh’s legacy continues to inspire as she prepares to present the Biennale Arte 2026 title and theme. The museum has suspended its programming until further notice, while a press conference is expected on May 20 to honor her contributions to contemporary art.