Koyo Kouoh, a prominent Cameroonian curator who was set to lead the 2026 Venice Biennale, tragically passed away at the age of 57 on Saturday, May 10. Her husband, Philippe Mall, confirmed to the New York Times that Kouoh’s untimely death was a result of her recent cancer diagnosis.
Born in 1967 in Douala, Cameroon, Kouoh moved to Zurich as a teenager and later pursued a career in social work, focusing on assisting migrant women. She eventually transitioned into the arts and culture sector, becoming a renowned curator with a passion for amplifying Black creative voices.
Kouoh’s impressive career included serving as the executive director and chief curator of Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town, South Africa, since 2019. She was also the founding artistic director of Dakar’s RAW Material Company and played a key role in the development of the 1-54 Contemporary African art fair.
In December, Kouoh was appointed as the artistic director of the 2026 Venice Biennale, where she would have been the first African woman to lead the prestigious international exhibition. Her sudden passing has left a significant void in the world of contemporary art, with colleagues and peers mourning the loss of her immense talent and dedication to promoting equity and diversity in the art world.
Zeitz MOCAA, where Kouoh made a lasting impact with her groundbreaking exhibitions, has temporarily closed its doors to honor her memory. The museum has invited friends, loved ones, and admirers to share physical or digital tributes in remembrance of Kouoh’s legacy.
Kouoh’s legacy as a trailblazing curator and advocate for Black artists will continue to inspire generations to come. She is survived by her husband, four children, mother, and stepfather, leaving behind a profound impact on the global art community. Her work will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
