Elvira Dyangani Ose Appointed New Artistic Director of Zeitz MOCAA

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, located in Cape Town, South Africa, recently revealed the appointment of Elvira Dyangani Ose as its forthcoming artistic director. Her tenure is set to commence on the first day of October, marking a new chapter for the prominent institution. Dyangani Ose steps into this significant role following the late Koyo Kouoh, who served as the executive director and chief curator of Zeitz MOCAA from 2019 until her passing in May 2025.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new position, Dyangani Ose stated her profound honor in joining Zeitz MOCAA and her eagerness to contribute to its ongoing success as a leading African institution with a global footprint. She conveyed her anticipation of collaborating with the museum's dedicated team, artists, benefactors, and both local and international communities. Her vision includes strengthening the museum's existing framework by fostering meaningful partnerships and promoting artistic dialogues across diverse cultures and regions.

Dyangani Ose's distinguished career includes her current role as artistic director for the 2nd Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial. From 2021 to 2026, she led MACBA Barcelona, a position she voluntarily left before her contract concluded due to the museum's board determining a conflict with her Abu Dhabi commitments. Her impressive background also features leadership positions at The Showroom in London, Creative Time in New York, and Tate in London. Additionally, she has curated several notable biennials and exhibitions, specializing in modern and contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, including acclaimed solo shows for artists like Bouchra Khalili and Betye Saar, and co-curating the internationally touring “Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica.” David Green, co-founder and co-chair of Zeitz MOCAA, emphasized that Dyangani Ose's appointment reflects the museum's identity as an institution deeply rooted in Africa yet connected globally. He highlighted her role in shaping the museum's curatorial direction as it approaches its second decade, building upon Kouoh’s extraordinary legacy and artistic vision.

This leadership transition signifies a robust commitment to advancing contemporary African art on the global stage. Elvira Dyangani Ose's extensive international experience and curatorial vision promise to enhance Zeitz MOCAA's mission, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of African artistry worldwide. Her appointment underscores the dynamic evolution of cultural institutions in promoting diversity and cross-cultural dialogue, inspiring future generations through art.