Elvira Dyangani Ose takes the helm as artistic director of Zeitz MOCAA for its 10th anniversary

Elvira Dyangani Ose, a prominent figure in contemporary art, is set to assume the role of artistic director at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) as the museum prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Dyangani Ose will assume her position on October 1, 2026, bringing a wealth of experience in contemporary art, institutional leadership, and the cultivation of platforms for African artists and their diaspora.

She will oversee the museum's curatorial vision and artistic direction from its location in Cape Town’s Silo District, adjacent to the V&A Waterfront. The museum, which opened in 2017 in renovated grain silos, is one of the largest institutions in Africa dedicated to showcasing African contemporary art. It has grown into a significant global venue since its inception.

Dyangani Ose's appointment follows a thorough local and international search, following the unexpected death last year of the museum's executive director and chief curator, Koyo Kouoh, at the age of 57. Zeitz MOCAA co-founder and co-chair, David Green OBE, expressed his delight at welcoming Dyangani Ose, noting that her appointment reflects the institution's commitment to its African roots while being connected to the global community.

She will lead the museum's curatorial vision and direction, guiding the institution through its next decade by building upon the legacy of late Koyo Kouoh, and honoring her artistic vision and the foundations she established. Zeitz MOCAA co-founder and chair, Jochen Zeitz, highlighted that Dyangani Ose joins the museum at a pivotal moment as it approaches its 10th anniversary.

She brings extensive experience in institutional leadership and will enhance the museum's artistic ambitions across various aspects, such as exhibitions, research, collections, public engagement, and its collaborative work with artists and audiences. Dyangani Ose expressed her privilege in joining Zeitz MOCAA, stating her excitement to continue the museum's journey as a leading African institution with a global reach.

She aims to work alongside the museum's talented team, artists, supporters, and local and global communities to foster meaningful collaborations and artistic exchanges across cultures and geographies.