Morad Montazami, a renowned art historian and curator, has been appointed as the artistic director of the 16th edition of the Dakar Biennale, scheduled to take place from November 19 to December 19, 2026. As a Franco-Iranian, Montazami embodies the connection between African, Arab, and Iranian cultures. His dual nationality and intellectual trajectory make him an ideal candidate to foster dialogue and exchange between these cultural spheres. With a background in art history and theory, Montazami is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of contemporary art.
Montazami's appointment as artistic director is seen as a significant milestone in his career. He previously worked at the Tate Modern in London, where he was responsible for curating exhibitions on Middle Eastern and North African art from 2014 to 2019. This experience has enabled him to travel extensively between Africa and the Middle East, cultivating relationships with artists, curators, and cultural institutions. Montazami's platform, "Zamân Books and Curating," focuses on promoting modern and contemporary African, Arab, and Asian art, as well as postcolonial art history.
As artistic director of the Dakar Biennale, Montazami aims to build on the event's reputation as a premier platform for contemporary African art. The biennale, which has been running since 1989, is known for its inclusive and popular approach, attracting diverse audiences and showcasing works by artists from across the continent. Montazami's thematic proposal, "(Anti) fragilité: arts de la réparation et stratégies du contrecoup," has been selected for this edition, which will feature the Democratic Republic of Congo as the guest of honor.
Montazami's vision for the biennale includes a strong focus on ecology and sustainability. He plans to transform the former Palais de Justice into a green space, incorporating art installations and performances that promote environmental awareness. The event will also pay tribute to Senegalese artist Abdoulaye Niokhor Bob, who passed away in 2017. Montazami has assembled a team of curators, researchers, and designers to support the biennale's programming, including Madeleine de Colnet, Oulimata Guèye, and Delphine Lopez.
The biennale's selection committee has chosen 54 visual artists and 21 designers to participate in the event. Montazami has also announced the appointment of Moroccan artist Faouzi Laatiris as the "Grand témoin" of the biennale. Laatiris is a prominent figure in Moroccan contemporary art and education. The event promises to be a significant celebration of African and international art, with a focus on innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Montazami's involvement with the Dakar Biennale is seen as a testament to the event's growing importance on the international art scene. He believes that the biennale's inclusive approach and commitment to showcasing diverse artistic voices set it apart from other cultural events. By bringing together artists, curators, and audiences from across Africa and beyond, Montazami aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities and richness of contemporary art.
As the biennale approaches, anticipation is building among art enthusiasts and professionals. Montazami's leadership and vision are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the event, while maintaining its core values of inclusivity and cultural exchange. With its focus on ecology, sustainability, and artistic innovation, the 16th Dakar Biennale promises to be a landmark event in the world of contemporary art.
Key points
- Morad Montazami's appointment as artistic director of the Dakar Biennale aims to strengthen ties between African, Arab, and Iranian cultures.
- The biennale's 16th edition will feature 54 visual artists and 21 designers, with a focus on ecology and sustainability.
- Montazami's thematic proposal, "(Anti) fragilité: arts de la réparation et stratégies du contrecoup," explores the intersection of art and resilience.
