Africa Foto Fair returns to Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, for its 2nd edition. Established by Aidah Muluneh in 2010, the Africa Foto fair brings together emerging photographers from the continent, industry leaders, and educators in an immersive 12-day celebration of photography. From November 5th to December 17th, the photography fair will provide attendees with a profound appreciation of photography.
Boasting the participation of 52 photographers from 24 countries, the event serves as a spotlight for African and international photographers, showcasing emerging talents and established artists in photojournalism and fine art photography. The Africa Foto Fair has become a cultural bridge connecting photographers globally.
This year’s theme, Journey of the Heart: An Ode to Abidjan’s Enchantment, Is a celebration of Abidjan. The curator, Aidah Muluneh, shares her deep love for Adijan in her statement:
‘It has been four years since my journey led me from Addis Ababa to the captivating heart of Abidjan. Throughout my explorations of Africa, I was strongly drawn to this city. Every city, I believe, has its unique energy, an essence that resonates with certain souls. Abidjan, for me, was an immediate match, a place where I felt at home from the start. Describing the charm of Abidjan is a challenge. Still, from the moment I arrived, invited by the Donwahi Foundation, I knew I had found a place that reflected the vitality within me.
Curiously, my spirit remained in Addis Ababa while my heart found its home in Abidjan. The irony of this dual connection was not lost on me. For the longest time, my mother encouraged me to explore beyond Ethiopia and traverse Africa’s vast expanse. She instilled a deep love for our homeland and the entire continent. It wasn’t until my adult years that I fully grasped her gift of Pan-Africanism.”
The following speakers will guide the attendees on an exploration of photography throughout the years:
Dudley M. BROOKS (Washington Post), Finbarr O’Reilly (Photographe du New York Times) and Ed KASHI (Agence VII Photo
Lekgetho Makola(Javett Art Centre/University of Pretoria/South Africa), Jorge Louis, Nabil Boutros and JC Moschetti,Ly Lagazelle, Zahui Yvann, et Nuits Balnéaires , Natalie Hopikinson
Josiane Faubert and Susan Otieno,Giuliano Picchi,Karen Jenkins Johnson,Alessia Glaviano,
In addition, the event will feature an exciting body of work titled ‘The Madagascar Collection’ by LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery.
The Africa Foto fair is also accepting submissions for their virtual portfolio review facilitated by Prof. Celina Lunsford, the esteemed Artistic Director of Fotografie Forum Frankfurt. This open call, accessible to all photographers on the continent, seeks to provide valuable insights and feedback and serves as a unique opportunity to connect with a renowned expert in the field. The deadline for the open call is November 27th. To know more about the open call, click here.
