The Art Collector's Travel Guide to Africa
If you are an art collector visiting Africa for the first time or simply passionate about African creativity, you are in for a real treat.
Africa is not just the birthplace of ancient artistic traditions; it is home to some of the most exciting and dynamic contemporary art scenes in the world. The continent offers a rich variety of visual stories, creative talent, and artistic innovation that continues to inspire collectors globally.
But here’s the thing—Africa’s art world isn’t limited to gallery walls. It’s on the streets, in public spaces, in tucked-away studios, and in the lively conversations between artists and collectors over coffee or palm wine. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, travelling through Africa with art in mind is a deeply rewarding experience. It connects you not only to artworks but also to the culture, history, and people behind them.
In this digest, we provide an overview of must-visit art events, prominent galleries, emerging art scenes, and practical tips to enhance your African art journey.
Top Picks from Our Collection
1. Must-Attend Art Fairs and Festivals
Engaging with art fairs is an excellent way to experience contemporary African art and connect with artists and galleries. Below are some art fairs you should attend when visiting Africa.
Investec Cape Town Art Fair (South Africa): This fair is the largest of its kind in Africa, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary artworks. With over 120 exhibitors, 30,000 visitors, and 10,000 VIPs, it offers a platform for galleries, collectors, curators and artists from around the globe to create connections at the forefront of contemporary art.
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair (New York, London, Marrakech): This fair features over 30 exhibitors from 14 countries, focusing on contemporary African art. It is the first and only international art fair dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. The edition in Marrakech was held between 30 January and 2 February 2025.
FNB Art Joburg (South Africa): Set for September 5–7, 2025, in Johannesburg, this fair remains a premier platform for contemporary African art, featuring curated exhibitions across seven specialised sections.
Art X Lagos (Nigeria): West Africa's leading international art fair, scheduled for November 6–9, 2025, in Lagos, showcases a wide array of contemporary African art. Since its launch in 2016, the fair has emerged as a global destination, drawing artists and galleries from over 70 countries.
Congo Biennale (Democratic Republic of Congo): An important event highlighting Central African artists, the biennale offers a platform for contemporary art discussions and exhibitions.
2. Prominent Art Galleries and Museums
Exploring galleries and museums provides insight into both historical and contemporary African art.
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) – Cape Town, South Africa: Renowned for its extensive collection of contemporary African art, housed in a repurposed grain silo.
Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL) – Marrakech, Morocco: Recently renovated, MACAAL features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary African art, aiming to challenge stereotypes and highlight the continent's rich creativity.
Niyo Art Gallery – Kigali, Rwanda: Showcases works from local artists, providing a platform for Rwandan art and culture.
Norval Foundation – Cape Town, South Africa: A private museum housing a collection of modern and contemporary art from Africa, offering dynamic exhibitions and educational programs.
Nubuke Foundation – Accra, Ghana: Focuses on contemporary African art and cultural heritage, serving as a vibrant space for exhibitions and artist collaborations.
3. Emerging Art Scenes
Several African cities are gaining recognition for their burgeoning art scenes, offering fresh perspectives and dynamic artistic communities.
Johannesburg, South Africa: The city boasts a diverse creative scene with cultural centers like Nirox Sculpture Park and the Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation. It hosts major art fairs, positioning it as a leading destination for contemporary African art.
Kampala, Uganda: The art scene in Kampala has prospered significantly, with multiple commercial galleries showcasing local talent and attracting international attention.
Benin City, Nigeria: Emerging as a vibrant cultural destination, Benin City is set to gain prominence with the opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), a state-of-the-art cultural district.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Known for its dynamic art collectives and contemporary galleries, the city is a melting pot of traditional and modern artistic expressions.
Dakar, Senegal: Home to the renowned Dak'Art Biennale, Dakar's art scene is a vibrant mix of galleries, studios, and cultural centers, all fostering contemporary African art.
4. Tips for Art Collectors
Building an African art collection requires thoughtful consideration.
Educate Yourself: Engage with books, articles, and documentaries, and visit museums and galleries to gain a broader understanding of African art.
Engage with Local Artists: Visiting studios and interacting with artists provides deeper insights into their work and the cultural context.
Verify Authenticity: Ensure the provenance of artworks by working with reputable galleries and dealers.
Collecting art in Africa isn’t just about buying pieces—it’s about collecting stories, experiences, and relationships. Every city, fair, and gallery you visit adds another layer to your understanding of the continent’s immense cultural depth. Whether you’re navigating the bustling art fairs of Johannesburg, sipping mint tea while chatting with artists in Marrakech, or discovering a hidden gem in a Kampala studio, you’ll find that art in Africa is as diverse as it is captivating.