5 Must-Attend African Art Fairs and Festivals in 2025
Did you know that the global art market is projected to reach $585.98 billion in 2025?
According to Straits Research, the global art market was valued at $552.03 billion in 2024. It is expected to grow from $585.98 billion in 2025 to $944.59 billion by 2033, making it a profitable economic field for Africans to participate in.
Collectors and investors view African art as a potentially rewarding investment. As African economies develop and more African artists achieve international fame, art from the continent is increasingly viewed as a form of capital appreciation. According to Artnet's 2024 Intelligence Report, overall sales of artworks created by African-born artists climbed by 46% between 2013 and 2023, with 2021 being the strongest year for the African art market, with $101.3 million in sales.
Interestingly, art fairs and festivals across the African continent are the unsung heroes of this growth. They play a vital role in the growth of African art globally as they provide an opportunity to network and drive sales of African artworks.
In this digest, we will explore some of the must-attend art fairs and festivals in Africa this year.
Top picks of the week from our collection
1. RMB Latitudes (South Africa)
RMB Latitudes, South Africa's dynamic art platform, was launched in 2019 as a collaboration between Lucy MacGarry, Tamzin Lovell Miller, and Dali Tambo. With the goal of bridging the gap between African artists and collectors, it soon grew from a boutique fair to a thriving ecosystem that celebrates the continent's vast artistic diversity.
What distinguishes RMB Latitudes is its comprehensive approach to art, which combines actual exhibitions with digital experiences, as well as its emphasis on mentorship and sustainability within the art community. The 2025 edition, scheduled for May 23–25, promises a varied mix of modern works that reflect the vibrant pulse of African art today.
2. Congo Biennale (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Born out of a wish to highlight the rich artistic talent of the Congo and the larger African continent, renowned Congolese artist and curator Vitshois Mwilambo started the vibrant celebration of modern art in 2019. With its bold, immersive installations and provocative themes, the Biennale soon made a name for itself.
The Congo Biennale is truly unique in that it integrates art into Kinshasa's urban fabric, resulting in a conversation between the city's lively culture and the artworks on show. The 2025 edition, which will run from July 7 to August 30, aims to once again convert the city into a dynamic canvas, celebrating art's ability to inspire and transform public spaces.
3. FNB Art Joburg ( South Africa)
FNB Art Joburg debuted in 2008 as the Joburg Art Fair, a pioneering event aimed at introducing South African and African art to a wider audience. Ross Douglas founded the show, which immediately established itself as a thriving hub for art fans, collectors, and makers.
The 2025 edition, scheduled for September 5–7, promises to once again be a dynamic gathering place for the best of African art. FNB Art Joburg stands out for its authentic celebration of the continent's diverse artistic voices, and its dedication to inclusivity and innovation is what makes it unique. It offers curated experiences such as Gallery Lab for experimental projects and the Lab for young collectors.
4. Lagos Photo Festival (Nigeria)
The African Artists' Foundation, led by the visionary Azu Nwagbogu, founded the Lagos Photo Festival in 2010. It is Nigeria's first and only international photographic arts festival. What began as a modest gathering of photography enthusiasts has evolved into a groundbreaking platform that brings together photographers from around Africa and beyond to share stories that challenge and reinvent narratives about their continent.
Lagos Photo Festival stands out for its commitment to utilising photography as a vehicle for social change, giving voice to marginalised stories and viewpoints. The 2025 edition will take place from October 24 to November 2, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a visual voyage that embodies the spirit of contemporary African life.
5. Art x Lagos ( Nigeria)
Nigeria's biggest international art expo, Art X Lagos, started out as a daring idea in 2016 and was created by Tokini Peterside, a visionary who was passionate about introducing the world to West Africa's thriving art scene. Art X Lagos brings artists, collectors, and fans from all over the world to the vibrant city of Lagos every year, providing a vibrant stage on which modern African art is showcased.
The fair's dedication to nurturing new talent and pushing artistic boundaries has cemented its reputation as a must-attend event. Its innovative programming, which includes talks, curated exhibitions, and a dedicated platform for emerging artists, has set it apart. Mark your calendars because the 2025 edition of Art X Lagos is scheduled to take place from November 6 to 9, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of African creativity.
Attending African art fairs and festivals will always provide a firsthand look at the thriving contemporary African art scene. These events offer an opportunity to connect with artists, collectors, and industry leaders, making them essential for anyone passionate about African art.
Whether you are looking to invest in African art, expand your knowledge, or simply enjoy stunning works, African art fairs should be on your calendar.
Love the informative pieces !, keep ‘em coming!