African art is often deeply intertwined with the social, religious, and cultural practices of the communities that create it. It holds significance not just as an aesthetic object but as a representation of traditions, rituals, and beliefs. Art production is a vital part of the informal economy in many African countries, as seen in the diverse styles of craftsmanship unique to each country on the continent.
Today, African art is booming, stepping confidently into global arenas, with artists gaining recognition far beyond their homelands. The advent of online art marketplaces has opened new avenues for African artists to sell their work globally. Digital platforms like Artsy, Saatchi Art, and even Instagram have democratized access to African art, connecting artists with global buyers and bypassing traditional intermediaries.
According to Straits Research, the global art market size was valued at USD 552.03 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach from USD 585.98 billion in 2025 to USD 944.59 billion by 2033 making it a lucrative economic sector for Africans to participate in.
Collectors and investors see African art as a potentially profitable investment. As African economies grow and more African artists gain international acclaim, art from the continent is increasingly seen as a form of capital appreciation. Artnet’s 2024 Intelligence Report revealed that between 2013 and 2023, total sales of art works made by African born artists increased by a whopping 46 per cent with 2021 marking the best year for the African art market – $101.3 million worth of work by African-born artists were sold in that year.
Operating at the heart of the growth of African Art globally are Art Fairs and Festivals on the continent. From Marrakech to Cape Town, here are 8 African art fairs and festivals you can’t miss in 2025, each offering its unique take on the continent’s creative expression.
Art X Lagos, Nigeria’s premier international art fair, began as a bold dream in 2016, the brainchild of Tokini Peterside, a visionary with a passion for showcasing the vibrant art scene of West Africa to the world. What started as a modest gathering has blossomed into a cornerstone event on the global art calendar. Each year, Art X Lagos draws artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from across the globe to the bustling city of Lagos, offering a dynamic platform where contemporary African art takes center stage.The fair’s milestones are as impressive as its ambition. From hosting groundbreaking installations to featuring artists whose works now grace international museums, Art X Lagos has consistently elevated African art on the world stage. Its innovative programming, including talks, curated exhibitions, and a dedicated platform for emerging artists, has set it apart. The fair’s commitment to fostering new talent and pushing artistic boundaries has cemented its reputation as a must-attend event.Mark your calendars, as the 2025 edition of Art X Lagos is set to take place from November 6 to 9, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of African creativity.
FNB Art Joburg began its journey in 2008 as the Joburg Art Fair, a pioneering event aimed at bringing South African and African art to a broader audience. Founded by Ross Douglas, the fair quickly established itself as a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts, collectors, and creators. In 2018, the fair rebranded as FNB Art Joburg, under the leadership of Mandla Sibeko, with a renewed focus on championing African artists and galleries.Over the years, FNB Art Joburg has celebrated numerous milestones, from showcasing works by emerging talents who have gone on to achieve international acclaim, to fostering a sense of community within the African art market. What sets it apart is its commitment to inclusivity and innovation, offering curated experiences like Gallery Lab for experimental projects and the Lab for young collectors.Set against the backdrop of Johannesburg’s pulsating energy, FNB Art Joburg stands out for its authentic celebration of the continent’s diverse artistic voices. The 2025 edition, slated for September 5 to 7, promises to once again be a dynamic meeting point for the best of African art.
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair, a gem in South Africa’s cultural calendar, debuted in 2013 with the mission to bridge the gap between the African and global art scenes. Founded by esteemed art curators and visionaries, it has grown to become the largest fair of its kind in Africa. Over the years, it has carved out a space that celebrates both established and emerging artists, creating a dynamic platform that brings together a diverse array of voices and perspectives.One of its most remarkable milestones was the introduction of the Tomorrows/Today section, which shines a spotlight on up-and-coming artists, offering them a springboard to international acclaim. The fair’s unique blend of local charm and global outlook, paired with its stunning venue in the heart of Cape Town, makes it a truly unforgettable experience for art lovers. In 2025, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair will run from February 21 to 23, promising another spellbinding showcase of contemporary art, where the pulse of Africa’s creative energy meets the world.
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, named after the 54 countries that make up Africa, was founded in 2013 by the dynamic Touria El Glaoui, a Moroccan entrepreneur with a deep passion for African art. With its inaugural edition in London, the fair quickly established itself as a key player in the art world, offering a dedicated platform for African artists to engage with an international audience. Expanding its footprint to New York and Marrakech, 1-54 has become synonymous with the celebration of Africa’s rich artistic heritage. A major milestone came in 2018 when the fair launched in Marrakech, bringing the conversation about African art back to the continent. The Marrakech edition is renowned for its unique setting, combining contemporary art with the city’s historic and architectural charm. What sets 1-54 apart is its curated approach, blending gallery exhibitions with talks, film screenings, and site-specific installations that provide a holistic view of the African art landscape. The 2025 edition in Marrakech is scheduled from January 30 to February 2, promising another captivating exploration of contemporary African artistry in the heart of Morocco.
Lagos Photo Festival, Nigeria’s first and only international arts festival of photography, was launched in 2010 by the African Artists’ Foundation, under the visionary leadership of Azu Nwagbogu. What started as a small gathering of photography enthusiasts has grown into a groundbreaking platform that brings together photographers from across Africa and beyond to share stories that challenge and redefine narratives about the continent.Over the years, the festival has reached significant milestones, including collaborations with globally renowned photographers and hosting thought-provoking exhibitions that explore themes ranging from identity and heritage to social justice and urbanization. Its signature outdoor exhibitions, set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos, offer a unique experience that merges art with the city’s dynamic energy. Lagos Photo Festival stands out for its commitment to using photography as a medium for social change, giving voice to underrepresented stories and perspectives. The 2025 edition will take place from October 24 to November 2, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a visual journey that captures the essence of contemporary African life.
The Congo Biennale, a vibrant celebration of contemporary art, was founded in 2019 by renowned Congolese artist and curator Vitshois Mwilambwe Bondo. Born out of a desire to showcase the rich artistic talent of the Congo and the broader African continent, the Biennale quickly made a name for itself with its bold, immersive installations and thought-provoking themes.From its inaugural edition, which transformed the bustling city of Kinshasa into an open-air gallery, to its subsequent editions that have attracted artists and visitors from around the world, the Congo Biennale has become a key event in Africa’s cultural landscape. Its milestones include collaborations with international art institutions and a growing reputation for pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.What makes the Congo Biennale truly unique is its integration of art into the urban fabric of Kinshasa, creating a dialogue between the city’s vibrant culture and the artworks on display. The 2025 edition, scheduled for July 7 to August 30, promises to once again turn the city into a dynamic canvas, celebrating the power of art to inspire and transform.
RMB Latitudes, South Africa’s dynamic art platform, began as a collaborative initiative in 2019, co-founded by Lucy MacGarry, Tamzin Lovell Miller, and Dali Tambo. With a vision to bridge the gap between African artists and collectors, it quickly evolved from a boutique fair into a robust ecosystem that celebrates the continent’s rich artistic diversity. From the outset, RMB Latitudes distinguished itself by offering an alternative to traditional art fairs, blending the intimacy of a curated art experience with the expansive reach of a digital marketplace.One of its standout milestones was the seamless pivot to an online format during the 2020 global lockdowns, which expanded its audience and underscored its innovative spirit. Each year, it continues to push boundaries, introducing fresh, exciting talent alongside established names, and fostering meaningful connections in the art world.What makes RMB Latitudes unique is its holistic approach to art, combining physical exhibitions with digital experiences, and its focus on mentorship and sustainability within the art community. The 2025 edition, set for May 23 to 25, promises an eclectic mix of contemporary works that reflect the dynamic pulse of African art today.
The National Arts Festival, a cornerstone of South Africa’s cultural landscape, began in 1974 in the charming city of Grahamstown (now Makhanda), with the vision of showcasing the country’s finest artistic talent. Founded by the late Guy Butler, a passionate advocate for the arts, the festival was initially a modest affair, primarily focused on theatre. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest and most diverse arts festivals in Africa, encompassing a wide array of disciplines, from dance and music to visual arts and film.Milestones abound in the festival’s storied history, including the establishment of the Fringe program, which offers a platform for emerging artists, and the introduction of the Virtual National Arts Festival in 2020, which expanded its audience globally. What makes the National Arts Festival unique is its commitment to inclusivity and innovation, creating a space where traditional and contemporary art forms converge.For 11 days each year, Makhanda becomes a vibrant hub of creativity and expression. The 2025 edition, running from June 26 to July 6, promises another thrilling lineup, celebrating the best of South African and international artistry.
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