New York Times Coverage: 'A Forum for African Voices Draws Inspiration From a Former Champion'

News Article by Tariro Mzezewa

An African Art in Venice Forum panel titled “Beyond Here: Queering African Art History” expands upon the Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art exhibition that is currently on at the National Museum of African Art. Photo by Brad Simpson

The New York Times profiled the work of the African Art in Venice Forum as it prepared for its 2026 edition in advance of the opening of the Venice Biennale. Alongside AAVF Director Neri Torcello, I had the honor of convening this edition and developing the 2026 program, which included panels featuring artists from North Africa, queer artists from around the continent, performance artists from both avant-garde and masquerade traditions, and artists featured in this year's Biennale. 

Dumouchelle agreed: “Koyo’s vision for the exhibition is beautifully thoughtful,” he said. “This idea of bringing voices to the table that have not previously had an opportunity, doing curatorial work that challenges our preconceived notions of boundaries between disciplines and sub-disciplines and sub-regions — that spirit, I hope, you will see animating the forum.”