Koyo Kouoh: A Trailblazer in Contemporary Art
Koyo Kouoh, a renowned figure in the global art scene, passed away on Saturday in Switzerland at the age of 57. Her death was confirmed by the organizers of the Venice Biennale, the prestigious art event where she was set to become the first African woman to curate its exhibition. The announcement did not specify a cause of death or her precise location within Switzerland.
Impact on the Art Community
The Venice Biennale released a statement describing Ms. Kouoh’s passing as “sudden and untimely,” noting her vital role as she prepared to unveil the title and theme for the 2024 exhibition. Her contributions have been recognized as leaving an “immense void in the world of contemporary art.”
As the executive director and curator of Zeitz MOCAA, Africa’s largest contemporary art museum, Kouoh was celebrated for championing artists of color from Africa and beyond. She stated in a 2022 interview, “I’m an international curator,” showcasing her broad vision for art.
A Transformative Career
When Kouoh took the helm of Zeitz MOCAA in 2019, the museum faced significant challenges after previous leadership issues. “The museum was in crisis when Koyo came on, subsequently compounded by the pandemic,” noted Storm Janse van Renseburg, a former senior curator at the museum. Her leadership revitalized the institution and engaged local communities, according to members of the artistic community.
Igshaan Adams, an artist who worked at the museum during her directorship, expressed, “Koyo made me, us, care again about the museum.” For many, her efforts fostered a connection between the museum and its community, cementing her impact in promoting diverse voices in art.
An Unexpected Journey
Kouoh was born in Douala, Cameroon, on December 24, 1967. After moving to Switzerland at age 13, she pursued studies in business administration and worked as a social worker with migrant women. A significant change occurred in her life when she became a mother, prompting her to relocate to Dakar, Senegal, in 1995. There, she aimed to “explore new frontiers” and later founded Raw Material, an influential artist residency and exhibition space.
Oluremi C. Onabanjo, an associate curator at the Museum of Modern Art, remarked on Kouoh’s transformative role: “She enlivened and expanded a sense of possibility for a generation of African curators across the globe.”
Legacy and Future Endeavors
Kouoh’s contributions to the international art community are extensive; she played key roles in notable exhibitions like Documenta 12 and 13. Touria El Glaoui, founding director of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, acknowledged her as “the most important curator of artists from the African continent,” emphasizing her role in amplifying emerging talents.
Although Kouoh was initially hesitant about leading Zeitz MOCAA, her commitment to the museum’s mission was ultimately vital. “We cannot let this fail. We don’t have anything else like this on the continent,” she expressed in an interview. Throughout her career, she actively worked to elevate African artists, asserting the importance of diverse narratives in the art world.
A Community Mentor
Kouoh was also recognized for her mentorship, guiding artists and curators worldwide. Kate Fowle, director of the Arts Program for the Hearthland Foundation, highlighted her support for important ideas and talents. As anticipation grew around her upcoming role at the 2026 Venice Biennale, many in the art community acknowledged her deserving nature for this recognition.
“The artists will define where we go,” she stated, emphasizing her artist-centered approach to curating.
Kouoh is survived by her partner, Philippe Mall. Additional details regarding her survivors are yet to be disclosed.
