Elvira Dyangani Ose Appointed as Artistic Director for the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial 2026-2027

Elvira Dyangani Ose Takes the Helm of Abu Dhabi's Public Art Biennial

In an exciting development for the art community, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi has appointed Elvira Dyangani Ose as the Artistic Director for the second edition of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial. Set to open in the fall of 2026 and running through 2027, this edition promises to build on the monumental success of its inaugural counterpart, held from November 2024 to April 2025.

Ose, currently the director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona (MACBA), brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her resume includes previous appointments as the head curator at the Showroom in London and a significant position at the Tate Modern, where her work was pivotal in curating international art. With her robust background, Dyangani Ose aims to turn Abu Dhabi into a vibrant hub for public art, culture, and community engagement.

The first edition of the biennial received widespread acclaim, showcasing site-specific installations curated from both local artists and international figures. Notable contributions came from artists such as Kader Attia, Superflex, and Farah Al Qassimi, many of whom had their works acquired for permanent public display. This initiative reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and enhancing the emirate's artistic landscape.

Dyangani Ose has crafted a promising vision for this upcoming biennial, one that emphasizes the importance of participatory experiences in art. Her projects often explore the complexities of narrative and representation, particularly from underrepresented perspectives. This approach aligns well with the goals of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, which emphasizes engaging the public and creating communal experiences through art.

In addition to her role at MACBA, Ose has curated significant exhibitions such as “Project a Black Planet - The Art and Culture of Panafrica” and has been involved with Creative Time and the CIMAM advisory board. Her academic credentials bolster her experience: she holds a degree in Art History from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and is pursuing a PhD in Visual Studies at Cornell University.

As the upcoming biennial approaches, more details and further announcements regarding dates and featured artists are expected. The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism continues to highlight its commitment to advancing public art initiatives, contributing to the emirate's cultural infrastructure and community well-being.

The Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative not only showcases exceptional artworks but also integrates local narratives and promotes cultural sustainability through community engagement. The biennial, alongside other related projects like Manar Abu Dhabi, enriches the city’s public spaces and aims to inspire a collective memory and sense of place among its residents.

With Elvira Dyangani Ose at the forefront, the Abu Dhabi Public Art Biennial is set to astonish audiences once again with its exploration of contemporary themes through art, reaffirming the emirate's position as a global cultural destination. Stay tuned for more updates on this landmark event as they unfold.