The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is the first and only international exhibition dedicated exclusively to contemporary African art. With three annual editions in London, New York, and Marrakech, the fair has firmly established itself as the world’s premier platform, successfully raising the profile of enthusiasts and creators from the continent. By combining gallery presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and bespoke special projects, 1-54 is actively boosting the participation of artists of colour in the global art conversation. Read more about how an exhibition in three global cities is breaking down stereotypes about African art on londonski.
The Story Behind the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair: Founding and Growth
The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair was launched in 2013 by the Moroccan curator Touria El Glaoui, daughter of the renowned artist Hassan El Glaoui. The name of the fair symbolises the continent’s unity and cultural richness: “1 continent – 54 countries.” The fair made its debut in October during Frieze Week at the prestigious Somerset House in London. It drew the attention of over six thousand visitors, offering clear proof of the rapidly growing European interest in African art.
Two years after its successful launch, in 2015, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair ventured into the USA for the first time. The 1:54 NY pop-up exhibition, held at Pioneer Works in Red Hook, was timed to coincide with Frieze New York. The forum was led by Koyo Kouoh, who focused the debate on African identity, diasporic practices, and the future of African art. The exhibition design, crafted by RA Projects, transformed the industrial space into a pristine gallery zone featuring immaculate white booths. Sixteen galleries from around the globe took part in the event, including spaces from South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco.
In 2018, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair inaugurated its third official location in Marrakech. This edition showcased 17 galleries from Africa and Europe, with the total number of featured artists exceeding sixty—including both emerging voices and established figures from over twenty countries. A notable highlight was the addition of five new galleries, such as LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery from Côte d’Ivoire and the Moroccan-based Loft Art Gallery.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2022, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair returned to Somerset House. The milestone London event, which ran from October 13th to 16th, was the largest in the project’s history. This time, it brought together 50 international exhibitors from 21 countries; 16 of the galleries represented the African continent, and 14 participants were making their debut on the platform. More than 130 artists presented their works across an array of techniques, ranging from classic painting and sculpture to mixed-media projects and ambitious large-scale installations. The involvement of recognised artists—Ibrahim El-Salahi, Hassan Hajjaj, and Zanele Muholi—blended seamlessly with the introduction of new artistic voices.
The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair made a return to the iconic Somerset House in 2025. This edition featured over 100 artists from Africa and its diaspora. One of the key elements of the programme was the “Common Vision” exhibition, presented by a gallery that focuses on the contemporary Moroccan art scene. The show brought together four Moroccan women artists exploring the theme of femininity within a shifting social and cultural landscape.
The Acclaim and Significance of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Over its decade-long lifespan, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair has evolved into a leading global platform that fundamentally shapes the contemporary perspective on African art. Its annual editions in London, New York, and Marrakech form a robust international network, connecting artists, curators, and the public across different continents. The fair actively champions the diversity of artistic practices and viewpoints, creating a vital space for new diasporic and marginalised voices. Through its extensive programme of lectures, panel discussions, artistic presentations, and special projects, it serves as an essential hub for cultural education and exchange.
