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Dedicated to curating exhibitions

Highlighting African storytelling and cultural heritage, the consultancy creates spaces where historical and contemporary African narratives can be explored through art.

The consultancy is led by Zama Phakathi, an award-winning South African curator and art consultant. She is the recipient of the 2026 National Arts & Culture Award for Outstanding Curator, recognising her curatorial work on Nkosi Sikelel’ iAzania. Zama has curated exhibitions in South Africa and internationally, bringing a deep understanding of African art, history, and contemporary discourse to her work. Her practice focuses on creating meaningful connections between African artists, institutions, and the international art world, while ensuring that African voices are represented with authenticity, context, and thoughtful consideration within the curatorial landscape.

At Zama Phakathi Art Consultant, we are committed to using art as a tool for empowerment, education, and social transformation, ensuring that African stories are told by those who live them. Through art, we seek to:

Challenge dominant narratives and bring forward African voices in global art discourse.

Educate and inspire the next generation through workshops, exhibitions, and community-driven projects.

Encourage cross-cultural dialogue between African and global art communities.

Our Core Services

Curatorial Services

  • Curating thought-provoking exhibitions that explore African heritage, history, and contemporary issues.
  • Partnering with museums, galleries, and cultural institutions to create groundbreaking exhibitions.

Educational Programmes

  • Providing lectures, panel discussions, and public programmes to deepen knowledge of African art and history.

Our Mission

Our mission is to create a dynamic platform that fosters meaningful engagement with African narratives. We believe that art is a powerful tool for education, dialogue, and change, and our work is dedicated to preserving and amplifying the richness of African history and identity.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a leading force in the curation and promotion of African art and storytelling, supporting artists, collectors, and institutions in shaping the future of African cultural representation.

Tolika Mtoliki

Tolika Mtoliki

September 10, 2026
Nkosi Sikelel’ iAzania

Nkosi Sikelel’ iAzania

February 7, 2026
The Narratives of Black Hair

The Narratives of Black Hair

May 30, 2024

PREVIOUS WORK

Curator

Gallery Brulhart, Africa Basel Art Fair
Switzerland
17 - 22 June 2025

Curatorial Intern

SAFFCA.EU
France
March - October 2019

Curator

Simon Nkoli Memorial Lecture
South Africa
July - October 2018

Curator & Project Manager

1Future
South Africa & Japan
July 2015 - August 2016

Co-producer & Host

Zama’s Art Gallery, Urban Brew Studios
South Africa
June 2014 - June 2015

Curator & Project Lead

HIVSA
South Africa
November - December 2014