Each October, collectors, curators and art fans gather in London for one of the most important events dedicated to contemporary African art: the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair. Held at Somerset House, the fair has become a key meeting point for galleries and artists from across Africa and the global diaspora.
Founded in 2013, the fair takes its name from a simple idea: one continent, fifty-four countries. Its focus is clear, to present contemporary art from Africa and artists connected to the continent, giving galleries a platform within the international art market.
The London edition is the original and flagship event. Timed to coincide with the city’s major autumn art week, it attracts international collectors already visiting London for the wider art calendar. Each year around fifty galleries participate, presenting painting, sculpture, photography, textiles and installation works.
One of the strengths of the fair is the diversity of voices it brings together. Galleries travel from cities such as Lagos, Johannesburg, Marrakech and Accra, alongside international spaces that represent artists of African descent. The result is a vibrant snapshot of the contemporary African art landscape.
South African galleries have long played an important role in the fair. In recent editions, galleries such as Afronova, Eclectica Contemporary, Guns & Rain, kumalo | turpin and FILAFRIQUES have represented artists from the region, contributing to South Africa’s strong presence in the global African art scene.
Beyond the gallery booths, the fair also hosts talks, curated projects and special presentations. These programmes offer insight into artistic practice, collecting and the broader cultural context surrounding African art today.
For audiences in London and those following the international art market, the fair provides an opportunity to discover new artists and engage with the evolving story of contemporary African art.
As the 2026 edition approaches in October, 1-54 London continues to reinforce its role as a central platform for artists and galleries shaping the future of the African art world.
