Art Fairs

Prominent Voices on the International Stage

Art fairs dedicated to contemporary African art have emerged as powerful engines of visibility, exchange, and cultural affirmation. Over the past two decades, they have grown in scale and influence, establishing themselves as essential events in the global art calendar. These fairs serve not only as marketplaces but also as vibrant spaces of dialogue, where collectors, curators, galleries, and art enthusiasts come together to discover and celebrate the creative energy of the African continent and its diaspora.

Among the most notable are the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, held annually in London, New York, and Marrakech, which brings together a curated selection of galleries specializing in African and diasporic art. The Dak’Art Biennale in Dakar, Senegal is one of the longest-standing and most prestigious platforms on the continent, emphasizing pan-African creativity and critical discourse. Art X Lagos, Nigeria’s leading art fair, has rapidly become a key event for emerging talents and collectors in West Africa and beyond.

In Paris, AKAA – Also Known As Africa stands out as France’s leading fair dedicated exclusively to contemporary African and diasporic art. Held annually at the Carreau du Temple, AKAA offers a dynamic platform for galleries and artists from across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas, fostering dialogue between Africa and the Francophone world.

Meanwhile, Africa Basel, launched in Switzerland, creates a powerful link between African contemporary creativity and the heart of the European art market. This boutique fair, aligned with the rhythm of Art Basel, emphasizes artistic excellence, curatorial depth, and transcontinental collaboration.

These fairs are instrumental in building international networks for African artists, enabling them to access global markets, engage in artistic collaborations, and challenge dominant narratives within the art world. By amplifying diverse African voices and aesthetics, they help reposition Africa not as a peripheral player, but as a vital contributor to global cultural innovation.

Through these events, African art is not only exhibited—it is contextualized, debated, and celebrated, contributing to a deeper and more dynamic understanding of Africa’s cultural landscape today.

Explore More on OOA Gallery

At ooagallery.com, you can dive deeper into the vibrant world of contemporary African art. Explore our curated Artist Profiles, learn about our work with leading Museums, Foundations & Curators, and stay connected through our regularly published Newsletter. Whether you're a collector, curator, or art enthusiast, OOA Gallery is your gateway to discovering and supporting African creativity on a global scale.