As the 61st Venice Biennale approaches its inauguration, details about its unique focus on listening and slowness have emerged. This Biennale is notable for being the first curated by an African woman, Koyo Kouoh, who sadly passed away in 2025, one year prior to the event. Her curatorial theme, titled 'In Minor Keys', will be brought to life by a team of five curators, who will implement her deeply poetic ideas and chosen artists throughout various venues in Venice from May 9 to November 22.

Koyo Kouoh, born in Cameroon in 1967, emphasized the importance of re-evaluating human relationships through an African lens in her curatorial proposal for the Venice Biennale. She suggested that while Western perspectives may be misaligned, there is a whisper from Africa that brings forth authenticity and a reconnection to the Earth, the body, and the senses. Her vision calls for a celebration of humility and intuition, positioning these qualities at the forefront of artistic expression for this edition.

The curatorial work will continue under the guidance of a capable team, which includes historian Gabe Beckhurst Feijoo and Dakar curator Marie Hélène Pereira. Together, they aim to honor Kouoh's legacy and vision by showcasing art that resonates deeply with human experiences and invites visitors to slow down and listen. This focus not only honors the late curator's intent but also enriches the artistic dialogue at the Biennale, contributing to a more profound cultural exchange in the international art landscape.