Basel, Switzerland – Coumba Samba’s multimedia and performative work is currently captivating audiences at Kunsthalle Basel, with the exhibition running through . The exhibition, which began on , is a joint curation between Kunsthalle Basel and the London-based exhibition space, Galerina.
Samba, born in 2000, utilizes a diverse range of artistic mediums to explore the complex interplay between institutional structures and the formation of individual and collective identities. Her work doesn’t shy away from questioning established cultural narratives, instead offering a critical lens through which to examine the forces shaping our understanding of the world.
The artist’s practice delves into themes that resonate deeply with contemporary society: consumer culture, the dynamics of social interaction, and the increasingly blurred lines between technology and identity. She illuminates the often-subtle, yet powerful, relationship between mainstream cultural expressions and more subversive artistic practices. This exploration isn’t merely academic. Samba’s work actively seeks to reveal the enduring legacies of colonialism and how these historical structures continue to influence the social and political landscape today.
Künsthalle Basel has a long history of engaging with the public sphere through art. Since 1996, the exterior wall of the institution has served as a platform for individual artistic presentations of contemporary art, effectively extending the gallery’s reach beyond its physical walls. The collaboration with Galerina on the Coumba Samba project represents a continuation of this commitment to public engagement and a willingness to embrace new curatorial perspectives.
The partnership with Galerina, initiated in 2025, signifies a deliberate effort by Kunsthalle Basel to broaden its artistic horizons and foster dialogue between different cultural contexts. Galerina’s involvement brings a fresh perspective to the project, enriching the overall curatorial vision and potentially exposing Samba’s work to a wider audience.
Samba’s work isn’t simply about identifying problems; it’s about prompting viewers to consider the underlying systems that perpetuate them. By examining the intersection of power, culture, and identity, she encourages a critical awareness of the forces that shape our lives. Her approach is particularly relevant in an era marked by increasing globalization and the rapid evolution of technology.
A specific event related to the exhibition is scheduled for , running from 11:00 to 17:00 Uhr at Kunsthalle Basel. The standard opening hours for the exhibition are 11:00 to 18:00.
Coumba Samba’s emergence as an artist to watch is also reflected in recent industry recognition. She was highlighted as one of the artists to watch for 2026 by Ocula, further solidifying her position as a rising star in the contemporary art world.
The exhibition at Kunsthalle Basel offers a compelling opportunity to engage with an artist whose work is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Samba’s ability to navigate complex themes with nuance and sensitivity makes her a significant voice in contemporary art, and her ongoing exhibition promises to be a thought-provoking experience for visitors.
The artist’s exploration of institutional impact extends beyond simply identifying power structures. She actively investigates how these structures shape not only individual perceptions but also collective identities, prompting a deeper consideration of how we understand ourselves and our place in the world. This focus on the collective dimension of identity is particularly noteworthy, as it acknowledges the interconnectedness of individual experiences within broader social and political contexts.
Samba’s engagement with technology isn’t presented as a neutral force. Instead, she examines its role in mediating our experiences and shaping our identities, raising questions about the potential for both empowerment and control in the digital age. This critical perspective on technology is increasingly relevant as our lives become ever more intertwined with digital platforms and devices.
