In the heart of the Venice Biennale, Cuban artist María Magdalena Campos-Pons led a poignant poetry caravan to commemorate the late curator Koyo Kouoh. This moving tribute took place across seven locations within the Giardini and was inspired by Kouoh's own voyage with African poets in 1999.

The procession, sanctioned but not on the official schedule, gathered voices from acclaimed writers like Natalie Diaz and Robin Coste Lewis, as well as kora player Saliou Cissokho and saxophonist Philippe Mall. The event highlighted Kouoh's legacy of advocating for African culture and her impact on the biennale.

Despite the commercial backdrop of the Biennale, this was a deeply significant moment, with María Hélène Pereira explaining that it represented 'prose as expression from the unspeakable feelings which emanate from various streams of oppression around the world.' The poetry and music conveyed themes of unity and resilience amidst adversity.

One participant, Radu Neacșu, likened the procession to an Easter tradition, connecting him to a greater community. This contrast with yesterday's protest against the Russia Pavilion underscores the diverse ways in which artists mourn and celebrate across this global event. Anna M. Dempster reflected on the joyous nature of such performances as a reflection of African culture.