Organizer Information
The Biennale de l’Art africain contemporain – Dakar is a prestigious, state-supported platform dedicated to showcasing contemporary African art. Founded in 1989, the Biennale has evolved into a major international event, highlighting the creativity, innovation, and diversity of the African artistic landscape. It operates under the supervision of the Ministère de la Culture, de l’Artisanat et du Tourisme of Senegal and is guided by a General Secretariat. The Biennale provides a platform for dialogue between African artists, the diaspora, and global audiences, integrating Visual Arts, design, and digital practices. Its mission includes fostering professional development, promoting artistic exchange, and positioning Dakar as a hub for contemporary African arts. The Biennale’s 16th edition emphasizes curatorial innovation and engagement with current global and African socio-cultural contexts.Title & Description
Curatorial Open Call – 16th Biennale de l’Art africain contemporain, Dakar 2026 The 16th edition of the Biennale de l’Art africain contemporain invites proposals from experienced curators to develop an original and engaging curatorial project. Applicants are expected to conceptualize exhibitions that explore contemporary transformations while remaining anchored in African realities and imaginaries. Selected curators will oversee international exhibitions, coordinate artist selection, and collaborate with the technical, scenography, and communications teams. Projects may include public programming, workshops, performances, and educational initiatives aimed at fostering critical reflection and engagement with contemporary African art. This opportunity provides a professional platform for curators to lead high-profile, internationally recognized exhibitions, contributing to both the visibility of African artists and the development of curatorial practice on the continent.Categories
- Curatorial
- Visual Arts
- New Media / Digital Art
- Exhibition Design
Eligibility
- Professional curators or individuals with significant experience in artistic direction.
- Proven track record in organizing exhibitions, cultural programs, or large-scale projects.
- Strong knowledge of African contemporary art and global contemporary artistic practices.
- Fluency in French and English (additional languages considered an asset).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Open to international applicants who can travel to Dakar, Senegal, for project supervision.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Leadership role as Artistic Director for the 16th Biennale de Dakar.
- Opportunity to implement an original curatorial vision on an international platform.
- Coordination of exhibition production, public programming, and educational initiatives.
- Engagement with a professional network of artists, collectors, institutions, and cultural organizations.
- High visibility through international media coverage and Biennale communications.
- Contribution to advancing contemporary African art discourse globally.
Application Fee
NoneApplication Requirements
- Curatorial project text detailing concept, theme, programmatic orientations, planned exhibitions, scenography, and execution timeline.
- Note of intent (max. 4500 characters) summarizing the curatorial project, optionally illustrated with up to 10 visuals.
- Detailed curriculum vitae including personal information, biography, and relevant exhibition history.
- Bibliography and references.
- Any additional supporting documentation that strengthens the application.
How to Apply?
Email Submission:info@biennaledakar.org Include all required documents in a single PDF. Incomplete dossiers will not be considered.Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
- Notification of Selection: 15 April 2026
- Biennale Period: 19 November – 19 December 2026
Location
Dakar, SenegalAdditional Details
- Selected curators must manage and coordinate international exhibition teams.
- Candidates should demonstrate strong project management skills, budget oversight, and networking capabilities.
- Curatorial projects should engage African and global artistic communities while respecting Senegalese laws and regulations.
- The Secretariat may provide assistance with logistics and institutional coordination.
- Applicants are encouraged to propose inclusive programming and public engagement initiatives.