The 1-54 Art Fair is just around the corner, running from the 10th to the 13th of October for its 12th edition at Somerset House in London. With over 160 artists and 60 exhibitors from across the continent, this year’s event will feature 14 panel discussions with curators, writers, and artists. These discussions will cover topics ranging from oceanic and African relations to book releases, arts infrastructure, and photography. These conversations are crucial in fostering a deeper understanding of African Arts Practice. The inclusion of artists, curators, writers, and researchers, amplifies discussions on the significance of African art in the global arts industry.
11th October: Africa and Oceania
This segment will explore the relationships between Africa, Oceania, and Europe, focusing on evolving market dynamics, matrilineal lineage, and motherhood. It will also address cross-cultural exchanges and the shifting global perception of African art. Notable researchers, curators, and artists will offer a qualified approach to the art practice and the broader African art market. Among the distinguished participants are Dr. Louisa Uchum Egbunika, the Sharjah Biennale 16 curatorial team, art historian Alayo Akinkugbe, and artists Cassi Namoda, and Dola Posh.
[Click here to learn more about the panel discussions]
12th October: Book Releases
This section will spotlight recent publications on photography and contemporary African art. The first panel will focus on African photography, featuring books like The African Gaze by Amy Sall (Founder of Sunu Journal) and Giulia Paoletti’s Portrait & Place: Photography in Senegal, 1840–1960. The discussion will also delve into Amy Sarr’s practice, examining the evolution and future of photography.
Other artists showcasing new books include British-Nigerian artist Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, who will present Encounters, featuring an essay by Ekow Eshun and a Q&A with Osei Bonsu. Additionally, a panel discussion on the book KIN, sponsored by Muse Frame, will take place at the TATALE PROVISIONS booth by Akwasi Brenya-Mensa.
[Learn more here]
13th October: Sustainability of the African Art Market
The final day’s discussions will center on the burgeoning African art market. It will particularly focus on its infrastructure in regions like the Horn of Africa and Congo. It will highlight emerging artists and their role in the global art ecosystem. With the industry’s growth, this session will address the structures necessary to sustain its momentum. Addis Fine Art will feature prominently, with its founders discussing the importance of gallery collaborations in navigating the dynamic market. Additionally, the conversation will explore how art is used in Congo as a tool for education and social change. Additionally, this section covers the challenges and opportunities within the DRC’s art scene.
Featured artists include: Asiko, Abe Odedina, Emmanuel Unaji
The 1-54 Art Fair has successfully incorporated these vital discussions in this year’s London edition. These discussions foster the development of sustainable structures for the future of African art.
[Click here for more insights on the 1-54 Art Fair.]
