The Venice Biennale recently revised the artist roster for Koyo Kouoh's main exhibition, initially announcing 111 participants in February. However, the current lineup for "In Minor Keys" now features only 110 artists.
As reported by ARTnews, the artist removed from the list is Bodys Isek Kingelez, a celebrated Congolese creator renowned for his vibrant cardboard sculptures depicting extravagant cities. Kingelez, who referred to his creations as "extreme maquettes," passed away in 2015 but had previously gained recognition for his participation in Okwui Enwezor's Documenta XI in 2002.
A spokesperson for the Biennale clarified that the works originally intended for inclusion from Kingelez were ultimately not available, though details regarding the specific pieces sought by Kouoh's curatorial team remain undisclosed.
Kingelez was among the few artists from beyond the grave included in the exhibition, joining luminaries such as Marcel Duchamp and Pauline Oliveros. His impactful works are housed in prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art, which showcased his art in a survey exhibition in 2018, and the Tate in London. Currently, one of his iconic sculptures is featured prominently in the exhibition "New Humans: Memories of the Future" at the New Museum in New York.
Despite the adjustments, "In Minor Keys" is set to be realized posthumously following Kouoh's passing in 2025. Five curatorial advisers, personally selected by Kouoh--Gabe Beckhurst Feijoo, Marie Hélène Pereira, Rasha Salti, Siddartha Mitter, and Rory Tsapayi--are dedicated to bringing her vision to life.
