Context:

Koyo Kouoh, a prominent figure in the global art world and the first African woman appointed to curate the Venice Biennale, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 57 in Switzerland. Her tenure as curator and executive director of Zeitz MOCAA revitalized the museum and significantly increased its engagement with the local community, particularly by promoting artists of color. Kouoh's influential career was marked by her dedication to bringing African artists to international prominence and her work on numerous acclaimed exhibitions. Her unexpected death leaves a significant void in the art community, as she was poised to announce the theme for the next Venice Biennale, a role she was highly regarded for. Throughout her career, Kouoh was celebrated for her ability to foster new perspectives in art, serving as a mentor to many and championing important voices and ideas in contemporary art.

Dive Deeper:

• Koyo Kouoh, who recently had been appointed to oversee the Venice Biennale, died suddenly at age 57, just days before she was to announce the event's theme. Her death leaves a profound absence in the contemporary art scene, as she was set to become the first African woman to take on this prestigious curatorial role.

• At Zeitz MOCAA, Kouoh was instrumental in transforming the museum's reputation and relevance. She took the reins during a crisis period and revitalized the institution, notably increasing community engagement and spotlighting artists of color.

• Her career was marked by a global reach and a commitment to re-inscribing African perspectives in the art world. Kouoh founded Raw Material in Dakar, an influential artist residency and educational platform, which significantly impacted the growth of African curators and artists.

• Kouoh's curatorial work, including the acclaimed 'When We See Us: A Century of Black Figuration in Painting', demonstrated her sophisticated and politically conscious approach. Her exhibitions were known for blending art historical depth with contemporary social issues.

• Her legacy includes mentoring numerous artists and curators globally, and she was widely respected for her ethical rootedness and ability to create exhibitions that resonated deeply with both local and international audiences.

• Kouoh initially resisted taking over Zeitz MOCAA but was persuaded by colleagues who felt it was crucial to maintain such a significant cultural institution on the African continent. Under her leadership, it became a beacon for African art.

• Her death is not only a loss of a cultural leader but also interrupts her promising plans for the Venice Biennale, where she aimed to create a show that was artist-centered and reflective of contemporary issues.