The art world has faced several setbacks in recent times, with the COVID-19 pandemic being a major obstacle. However, despite these challenges, the number of art fairs worldwide has seen a significant increase. According to a recent report, there were over 377 art fairs globally in 2024. The 1-54 fair, founded in 2013, is one of the most prominent art fairs dedicated to African art. Its name pays homage to the 54 countries that make up the African continent.
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African Art Fair: From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition
In 2008, the first Joburg Art Fair took place in Johannesburg, with only 22 galleries participating. The event was curated by Simon Njami, who was also responsible for organizing the first African Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 2007. Today, almost two decades later, the curator for the 2026 Venice Biennale is none other than Koyo Kouoh, a Cameroonian-born artist. Koyo Kouoh, the Director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MoCAA) in Cape Town, has been instrumental in promoting African art globally. Her dedication to the art community has been instrumental in elevating the profile of African artists.
Investec Art Fair: The Largest Art Fair in Africa
Cape Town, the host city for the Investec Art Fair, is a city that is rapidly gaining popularity. In 2013, the fair started with 120 exhibitors and has since grown to become Africa’s largest art fair. With over 40,000 visitors from across Africa and beyond, the fair has become a platform for artists to showcase their work. The fair has been gaining momentum, with direct flights from major cities such as New York, Washington, DC, and Atlanta. This has made it easier for collectors to attend the fair without the need for visas.
Cape Town: A City with a Rich Artistic Heritage
Cape Town has been voted the best city in the world for food by readers of Condé Nast Traveller magazine in 2024. This has brought a surge of tourists to the city, who are drawn to its rich artistic heritage. The city is home to the Zeitz Mocaa Gallery, which has become a hub for artistic activity. The gallery has hosted numerous exhibitions and events, including the recent Zeitz Mocaa Gala.
Tomorrows/Today: Amplifying Emerging Voices
The Investec Art Fair featured a curated section called Tomorrows/Today, which showcased the work of leading artists from Africa. This section was curated by Mariella Franzoni, an Italian curator who aims to amplify the voices of emerging artists. The section featured 12 artists, including Joy Adeboye, Asma Ben Aissa, and Soukaina Joual, who represent a diverse range of contemporary practices. The artists’ works reflected current global art trends, including identity, socio-political commentary, and cultural exchange.
Panel Discussion with Koyo Kouoh
The 2025 Investec Art Fair took place from February 21-23, and I had the opportunity to attend a panel discussion with Koyo Kouoh. The discussion centered on the theme of hope and its role in the art world. Koyo Kouoh emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of emerging artists and the need for a more inclusive art world. She also highlighted the potential of African art to drive change and challenge global art trends.
In conclusion, the African Art Fair has become a beacon of hope in the art world. With the number of art fairs worldwide increasing, the fair has become a platform for artists to showcase their work and for collectors to discover new talent. The fair has also highlighted the potential of African art to drive change and challenge global art trends. As the art world continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the importance of African art and the role it plays in shaping the art world. Definitions:
A fair dedicated to showcasing African art and promoting the work of African artists.
The continent comprising 54 countries.
A curated section of the Investec Art Fair that showcases the work of leading artists from Africa.
The largest art fair in Africa, held in Cape Town. Key points:
• The number of art fairs worldwide has increased significantly in recent times. • The 1-54 fair is one of the most prominent art fairs dedicated to African art. • Cape Town has become a hub for artistic activity, with the Zeitz Mocaa Gallery hosting numerous exhibitions and events. • The Investec Art Fair has grown to become Africa’s largest art fair, with over 40,000 visitors from across Africa and beyond. • The Tomorrows/Today section of the Investec Art Fair showcases the work of leading artists from Africa, amplifying the voices of emerging artists. Sources:
• 1-54 Art Fair
• Zeitz Mocaa Gallery
• Investec Art Fair
Recommended reading:
• The New York Times
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