The global art community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Koyo Kouoh, the esteemed Cameroonian-Swiss curator and Executive Director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) in Cape Town. Kouoh, who was set to make history as the first African woman to curate the Venice Biennale in 2026, died unexpectedly on May 10, 2025, at the age of 57. AP News+7Ocula+7Wikipedia+7Ocula+6The Guardian+6Wikipedia+6
Born in Douala, Cameroon, in 1967, Kouoh’s journey in the arts was marked by a relentless commitment to amplifying African voices on the global stage. Raised in Zurich, Switzerland, she pursued studies in business administration and banking before shifting her focus to the arts, inspired by the rich cultural narratives of her heritage.WikipediaThe Guardian+1Wikipedia+1
In 2008, she founded RAW Material Company in Dakar, Senegal, a center dedicated to art, knowledge, and society, which became a pivotal platform for contemporary African artists. Her visionary leadership continued at Zeitz MOCAA, where, since 2019, she transformed the institution into a beacon of Pan-African contemporary art. Under her guidance, the museum hosted landmark exhibitions, including “When We See Us: A Century of Black Figuration in Painting,” showcasing the depth and diversity of Black artistic expression.Wikipedia+5www.celesteprize.com+5Africans Column+5The GuardianAfricans Column+2Ocula+2Wikipedia+2
Kouoh’s appointment as the curator for the 61st Venice Biennale was a testament to her profound impact on the art world. Her vision for the Biennale aimed to reflect the complexities of contemporary society and the transformative power of art. In her own words, she aspired to compose an exhibition that would “carry meaning for the world we currently live in—and most importantly, for the world we want to make.”
Her sudden departure has left a void in the international art community. Tributes have poured in from institutions and individuals worldwide, honoring her legacy as a curator who not only championed African art but also redefined the narratives within global contemporary art. The Guardian
Kouoh’s contributions extended beyond exhibitions; she was a prolific writer and thought leader, engaging in critical discourse on art, culture, and society. Her publications and lectures have influenced a generation of artists, curators, and scholars.
As the art world reflects on her indelible mark, Koyo Kouoh is remembered not only for her groundbreaking achievements but also for her unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity and dialogue through art. Her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of contemporary art. AP News
