It is no longer news that African art is thriving, capturing global attention with its rich and contemporary innovations. With African art experiencing such a renaissance, there are workshops and programs across the continent providing unique opportunities for collectors and enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of this vibrant field. These workshops offer collectors and enthusiasts unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of African art. From exploring the cultural narratives behind traditional forms to discovering the latest trends in digital art and curation, these programs are not just educational—they’re transformative. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, these workshops promise to deepen your appreciation and connect you with Africa’s vibrant art community. Here are 10 must-attend workshops that will elevate your art journey in 2025.
1. Àsìkò 2025
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Dates: April 27 – May 25, 2025
Host: Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), Lagos
Àsìkò is more than a workshop; it’s an immersive, month-long experience where art meets storytelling. The 2025 edition, themed “Holding Memory,” will focus on how we preserve and interpret memories through art. It aims to explore the visualization of memory, including topics like hieroglyphics of memory, forms of remembering and forgetting, and the engagement with archives and history.
Taking place in Cairo, a city steeped in history, this program brings together artists, curators, and collectors to collaborate, learn and network. Àsìkò is perfect for those who want to deepen their understanding of African art while engaging in meaningful conversations about heritage and creativity.
2. Njabala Mentorship Program for East African Curators
Location: Kampala, Uganda (with virtual sessions)
Dates: January – June 2025
Host: Njabala Foundation, Independent Curators International (ICI) and AWARE
This six-month mentorship program is tailored for female-identifying curators in East Africa, focusing on curatorial practices and gender issues in the art world. It’s a blend of hands-on projects, virtual learning, and mentorship from experienced curators. If you’re passionate about curating and want to explore the intersection of gender and African art, this program offers an empowering platform to grow and connect.
3. The African Art Hub (TAAH) at 1-54 Marrakech 2025
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Dates: January 30– February 2, 2025
Set within the prestigious 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, The African Art Hub (TAAH) creates a dynamic space for workshops, talks, and exhibitions. This year, Nigerian artist Kingsley Ayogu will be having his solo exhibition, ‘Intimacy of Memory: A Journey Through Grief’ presented by The African Art Hub (TAAH) and it is inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 2021 memoir titled Notes on Grief and delves into the fragile yet powerful experience of mourning.
Whether you’re meeting gallery owners or discovering new artists, this is where the art world comes alive. It’s the perfect mix of learning, networking, and inspiration, all set against the stunning backdrop of Marrakech.
4. FNB Art Joburg Fair Workshops
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Dates: To be announced for 2025
Johannesburg’s art scene is buzzing, and the FNB Art Joburg Fair is its centerpiece. The workshops here focus on connecting collectors with emerging talent, offering insights into the art market, and exploring the unique energy of South African art. It’s an unmatched opportunity to discover rising stars and invest in the future of African art.
5. Obullo Bwafe Festival
Location: Kampala, Uganda
Dates: March 7 – 13, 2025
This vibrant festival celebrates Uganda’s art scene with a mix of workshops, exhibitions, and performances. It’s a space where tradition meets contemporary expression, making it a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts. The Obullo Bwafe festival is an immersive way to experience Ugandan creativity and connect with local artists.
6. Art Writing Workshop at LUCAC ’25
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Dates: February 14 – 16, 2025
Host: ARAK Collection & Lusaka Contemporary Art Centre
For those passionate about telling the stories behind African art, this three-day workshop is a must. Led by renowned art historian Thembinkosi Goniwe, the program, themed “Biographies Reimagined,” dives into the lives of artists, artworks, and the narratives they carry. This three-day workshop focuses on the concept of ‘Biography’ through the lives of objects and subjects, examining how cultural, historical, and social factors shape the narratives of artists and their works. Participants will explore the intertwined lives of artworks and their creators, aiming to produce nuanced and vibrant art narratives. The workshop draws inspiration from the ARAK Collection and the exhibition “Viable Vision: Martin Phiri Retrospective,” providing a rich context for discussion and writing.
This workshop is ideal for collectors, art writers and cultural researchers looking to deepen their understanding of art narratives and enhance their writing skills under expert guidance.
7. +234Art Fair Workshops
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Dates: March 25 – 29, 2025
The +234Art Fair is known for its vibrant celebration of African creativity, and its workshops are no exception. From wellness in art to mastering grant writing, these sessions are as practical as they are inspiring. This year, they’re also exploring how technology like AI and VR is reshaping the art world. It’s an exciting way to learn how to navigate the evolving African art market while connecting with industry leaders in one of Africa’s art capitals.
8. Design Week South Africa
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Dates: To be announced for 2025
This newly launched event celebrates the intersection of art and design. With workshops, exhibitions, and panel discussions, it’s a must-attend for anyone interested in how African design is shaping modern spaces. It is a must attend because it offers a fresh perspective on art as a lifestyle, blending aesthetics with functionality.
9. Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Opening Events
Location: Benin City, Nigeria
Opening Date: May 2025
This isn’t just a workshop—it’s history in the making. The opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) promises a lineup of discussions, exhibitions, and events designed to celebrate West Africa’s rich artistic heritage. It is only right to be part of a milestone moment that will shape the future of West African art and its global appreciation.
10. Nirox Sculpture Park Workshops
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Dates: Throughout 2025
Nestled in a breathtaking natural setting, Nirox Sculpture Park offers workshops that celebrate the art of sculpture. With permanent installations and visiting artists, it’s an inspiring space to explore creativity. If you love art and nature, this is the perfect place to see how the two can beautifully coexist.
African art is as diverse as the continent itself, and these workshops offer the chance to experience it firsthand. Whether you’re connecting with artists in Marrakech, learning about preservation in Benin City, or exploring cutting-edge technologies in Lagos, each program has something unique to offer. These workshops are more than events—they’re journeys into the heart of African creativity.
Which of these workshops are you most excited to attend? Share your thoughts with us!
