November 03, (THEWILL) – ART X Lagos, the foremost international art fair in West Africa, will welcome visitors from October 31st to November 3rd, 2024, at The Federal Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event marks its ninth consecutive year of bringing together artists, galleries, and cultural enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond.
The 2024 edition centres on the theme “Promised Lands,” examining both tangible and imagined spaces that represent hope and expanded freedoms. This concept particularly resonates amid current political and socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria and the broader African region.
Founder Tokini Peterside-Schwebig stated: “We are thrilled to present an exceptional lineup of artists, exhibitions and galleries for our ninth edition, representing the diverse and dynamic voices emerging from all corners of Africa and the diaspora. ‘Promised Lands’ is a theme that resonates deeply with our collective journey—reflecting on where we are and envisioning where we aspire to be.”
Ten distinguished galleries from locations including Lagos, Harare, Accra, and London will participate in the event. Notable participants include Afriart Gallery from Uganda, Gallery 1957 from Ghana, and Tiwani Contemporary from the UK, presenting works that represent contemporary African artistic expression.
The programme features several significant exhibitions, including Andrew Dosunmu’s first solo exhibition in Africa, “Restless Cities: From Lagos to the World.” Additionally, textile artist Marcellina Akpojotor and Williams Chechet will present works addressing sustainability and Afro-futurism respectively.
“The Speakers’ Corner: The Crossroads,” curated by Papa Omotayo with collaborators, offers a participatory space for attendees to engage with current Nigerian issues. The “Mark-Makers: Unsung Pioneers” exhibition, curated by Missla Libsekal, Fikayo Adebajo, and Haily Grenet, recognises individuals who advanced African achievement in science, art, and social activism.
ART X Live! returns with musical performances that blend traditional Fuji music with contemporary genres, featuring creative direction from visual artist Niyi Okeowo and producer Odunsi. The cinema programme will present 13 films by African and diaspora filmmakers.
The Access ART X Prize 2023 winners, Julius Agbaje and Shabu Mwangi, will host solo exhibitions exploring the concept of “What May Come.” In partnership with Afreximbank, the fair presents “Art Across Borders: Where to Go,” featuring six mid-career African and Caribbean artists.
Educational initiatives include the Schools’ Programme and Development Forum, aimed at supporting emerging African talent. The fair maintains its commitment to fostering dialogue between local and international art communities.
The event opened with a private Collectors’ Preview on October 31st, followed by a VIP Preview on November 1st. Public access runs from November 2nd to 3rd, with virtual attendance available through Artsy.net.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
