South Africa's Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town has named Elvira Dyangani Ose as its next artistic director, with her tenure set to begin on October 1. The appointment follows an international search and signals a new chapter for one of the continent's leading contemporary art institutions.
Dyangani Ose will take over the museum's curatorial direction from Koyo Kouoh, who led Zeitz MOCAA from 2019 and helped shape its institutional identity. Her arrival comes as the museum prepares to expand its artistic reach and deepen its role in global cultural dialogue.
In a statement, Dyangani Ose said she sees the position as an opportunity to build on the museum's foundation while strengthening collaboration across artists, communities, and regions. She emphasized the value of cultural exchange and the museum's growing international presence.
She currently serves as artistic director of the 2nd Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial and previously led MACBA Barcelona. Her background also includes senior curatorial roles at The Showroom in London, Creative Time in New York, and Tate, along with major biennial projects in Africa and Europe.
Known for her focus on modern and contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, Dyangani Ose has curated exhibitions featuring artists such as Bouchra Khalili, Betye Saar, Ibrahim El-Salahi, and Carrie Mae Weems. Her appointment reflects Zeitz MOCAA's ambition to remain rooted in Africa while engaging a wider global audience. The move may help shape a more connected future for contemporary art across continents.
