In a significant development for the Middle Eastern art world, prominent art collector and patron Elie Khouri has announced the appointment of Caroline Louca as the inaugural Director of the Elie Khouri Art Foundation (EKAF). This strategic move marks a pivotal phase in the institutional development of the foundation, which oversees a globally significant collection spanning more than 300 artists.
Louca assumes leadership with a comprehensive mandate to shape EKAF’s cultural vision and strategic direction. Her primary responsibilities include developing the foundation’s institutional architecture, appointing key curatorial and operational personnel, and establishing its permanent physical presence within the United Arab Emirates. This future venue is envisioned as a dynamic platform for public engagement, educational initiatives, and transforming artistic legacy into sustained cultural impact.
The appointment reflects Khouri’s methodical approach to foundation building. ‘My ambition for EKAF is that it becomes a vital platform for cultural exchange and engagement,’ Khouri stated. ‘Caroline brings the strategic vision and institutional expertise to help us realize that ambition thoughtfully and sustainably.’
Louca brings nearly two decades of exceptional experience across cultural institutions, government-led museum development, and international art markets. Her distinguished career includes senior strategic roles at the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism, where she contributed significantly to the development of acquisition frameworks and governance models for landmark institutions including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Zayed National Museum.
Subsequently, as Managing Director of Christie’s Middle East, Louca played an instrumental role in expanding the auction house’s market presence throughout the GCC region through curated auctions and institutional collaborations. Most recently, she founded Inicio Culture, advising regional collectors on cultural strategy and institutional transition.
‘This is a unique opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up,’ Louca commented regarding her appointment. ‘It’s about establishing the right frameworks and vision now so the Foundation can make a real contribution to the regional and global art community over the long term.’
This leadership appointment signifies EKAF’s evolution into a contemporary cultural institution dedicated to collection stewardship, accessibility, and meaningful community engagement throughout the region and beyond.