Yesomi Umolu is an experienced arts leader, curator, and cultural strategist working at the intersection of art and architecture.
Most recently, she was the Director of Curatorial Affairs and Public Practice at Serpentine, overseeing the artistic program and curatorial team. As Artistic Director of the 2019 Chicago Architecture Biennial, she developed a critically acclaimed program with over 80 international contributors. Umolu began her career working on civic masterplans and education projects for leading architectural practices Grimshaw and Haworth Tompkins.
Umolu has curated solo exhibitions, commissions, and edited publications with acclaimed artists and architects, including co-organising Serpentine Pavilion 2022: Black Chapel, designed by Theaster Gates, and the exhibition Barbara Chase-Riboud: Infinite Folds (2022), the artist’s first comprehensive survey in Europe.
In addition to her leadership positions, she is a consultant to cultural foundations and philanthropic initiatives, including the Teiger Foundation. She frequently shares her expertise on contemporary art and museum practices through international publications and conferences, such as the CIMAM annual conference.
