Morad Montazami Appointed Artistic Director for 16th Dakar Biennale: A Focus on (Anti)Fragility in Contemporary Art
In a significant development for the art world, Morad Montazami has been appointed as the artistic director for the 16th edition of the Dakar Biennale, a biennial exhibition dedicated to contemporary African art. Scheduled to take place from November 19 to December 19, 2026, this edition will be themed (Anti)Fragility: Arts of Repair and Counter-Shock Strategies. This ambitious title encapsulates a poignant exploration of how communities can transform vulnerabilities into sources of strength through collective action and creative expression.
Montazami, a distinguished art historian, curator, and publisher, has built a noteworthy career centered on the study of global modernities and postcolonial narratives in art. His previous role as the Middle East and North Africa curator at Tate Modern in London, which he held from 2014 until 2019, underscores his extensive expertise in this field. Beyond his curatorial accomplishments, Montazami is the founding figure behind Zamân Books & Curating, an editorial platform dedicated to advancing scholarship and understanding of modernities rooted in Arab, African, and Asian contexts.
The announcement of Montazami’s appointment is anticipated to resonate well within the art community, particularly given his recent accomplishments. He was instrumental in co-curating The Casablanca Art School, a notable exhibition currently showcased across Tate St Ives, Sharjah Art Foundation, and Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, which runs from 2023 to 2024. Additionally, his ongoing work includes the curatorial project Arab Presences: Modern Art and Decolonisation, Paris 1908–1988 at the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris, slated for 2024. His current fellowship at the prestigious Villa Medici – Académie de France in Rome is also noteworthy; he is preparing an exhibition entitled Routes cosmogoniques: une histoire visuelle post-pétrole, which aims to delve into visual narratives shaped by post-oil realities.
The theme of this year’s biennale, (Anti)Fragility, presents a compelling lens through which contemporary African art can be examined. The term “anti-fragility” itself, coined by scholar Nassim Nicholas Taleb, refers to systems or entities that benefit and grow stronger from shocks, volatility, and disorder. Montazami’s thematic focus invites artists and audiences alike to consider how artistic practice can serve as a means of resilience against external pressures and societal disruptions, particularly in a world where cultural and political fragility often coexists with an enduring spirit of community.
Montazami’s selection as director reflects a growing recognition of the vital role that African art plays in the global discourse surrounding contemporary creative practices. The Dakar Biennale has historically served as a critical platform for artists from across the continent and the diaspora, providing them with an opportunity to engage with international audiences and to share their narratives, which are often rooted in the nuances of local cultures and experiences.
As the biennale approaches, one can anticipate an array of innovative works that challenge conventional notions of strength and fragility through art. The exhibition promises to spotlight various artistic mediums and practices, likely featuring everything from installations and performances to traditional and contemporary forms of visual art. Central to the biennale’s mission is the idea of fostering dialogue among artists, curators, and visitors, thus reinforcing the importance of community and co-creation in the artistic process.
In conclusion, Montazami’s leadership at the Dakar Biennale signifies renewed optimism for the biennale’s future and highlights the relevance of contemporary African art in a broader cultural landscape. His vision for (Anti)Fragility: Arts of Repair and Counter-Shock Strategies aims not only to celebrate artistic expression but also to emphasize the transformative power of creativity in addressing pressing global issues. With the biennale just months away, the art world watches closely for what promises to be an event of considerable impact.
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