The Venice Biennale has recently revealed the theme for its upcoming 2026 edition, set to take place from May 9 to November 22. Titled “In Minor Keys,” this theme was inspired by the vision of the late Cameroonian curator, Koyo Kouoh. The focus of this edition will be on low harmonies, connective hums, and enduring cadences of song and sound.
Kouoh, who tragically passed away earlier this month, had outlined her ideas for the theme in a curatorial text. In her words, the exhibition aims to engage all senses in a visual and meditative journey, exploring the possibilities that exist in the spaces between worlds. Drawing inspiration from writers such as James Baldwin, Patrick Chamoiseau, and Toni Morrison, Kouoh’s vision for the Biennale is to create an immersive experience that invites visitors to tune into the frequencies of minor keys.
The main exhibition of the Venice Biennale will be held in the central pavilion, surrounded by the public gardens and dockyards. This central exhibition is just one aspect of the larger event, which also includes national pavilions and collateral events organized independently.
“In Minor Keys” will be brought to life according to Kouoh’s original plan, with the support of her family and a team of colleagues. This team includes historian Gabe Beckhurst Feijoo, curator Marie Helene Pereira, film programmer Rasha Salti, journalist Siddhartha Mitter, and assistant Rory Tsapayi. Kouoh, who previously served as the executive director and chief curator of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, was appointed as the curator of the Venice Biennale in December. She would have been the first African woman to lead the prestigious art show in its long history.
Following the success of last year’s edition, “Foreigners Everywhere,” curated by Adriana Pedrosa, the artistic director of the SĂŁo Paulo Museum of Art, “In Minor Keys” is highly anticipated. The organizers plan to unveil more details about the exhibition, including the list of participating artists, exhibition design, and countries involved, in late February 2026.
The theme of “In Minor Keys” promises to offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors, exploring the nuances of sound, harmony, and connection in the world of contemporary art.
