Vyjayanthi Rao has been appointed as the curator for the third edition of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial (SAT), set for 2026. An anthropologist, writer, artist, and curator based in New York and Mumbai, Rao will collaborate with associate curator Tau Tavengwa from London and Cape Town. Their partnership builds upon their previous collaboration at the 2022 Lisbon Architecture Triennale.
Rao and Tavengwa aim to adopt a propositional approach for the 2026 Triennial, focusing on generating ideas and strategies that address the challenges of contemporary urban centers across the Global South. Their vision emphasizes research, innovation, and knowledge-sharing, aligning with SAT’s commitment to exploring architecture and urbanism in West Asia, South Asia, and Africa.
The public will have an opportunity to engage with the curators during the “Meet the Curators of the 2026 SAT Edition” event at SAT headquarters, Al Qasimiyah School, on May 10, 2025. This event will mark their first official appearance as curator and associate curator, offering insights into their curatorial approach and vision for the upcoming edition.
