Bisi Silva

Bisi_Silva

Bisi Silva

Bisi Silva was a prominent Nigerian curator and art critic known for her significant contributions to the contemporary African art scene. She was born on August 29, 1962, in Lagos, Nigeria. Silva was the founder and artistic director of the Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA) in Lagos, a leading art institution in Africa.

Early Life and Education

Bisi Silva studied art history and curating at the University of Lagos before pursuing a master's degree in curating contemporary art at the Royal College of Art in London.

Career

Silva's career in the art world began with her work as a curator at the Venice Biennale and the Gwangju Biennale. She later returned to Nigeria and founded the Centre for Contemporary Art in Lagos in 2007. Under her leadership, the CCA became a hub for contemporary African art, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies.

Silva was known for her commitment to promoting emerging African artists and challenging traditional notions of art curation. She curated numerous exhibitions that showcased the diversity and talent of contemporary African artists, earning her international recognition in the art world.

Legacy

Bisi Silva's untimely passing in 2019 was a great loss to the global art community. Her pioneering work in promoting African art and artists continues to inspire a new generation of curators and art enthusiasts.