1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair

Definition

1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair is an international art fair that focuses on showcasing contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Launched in 2013 in London, this fair provides a significant platform for artists, galleries, and curators to promote and celebrate African art, while also addressing the growing interest and demand for African artists in the global art market.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1:54 was founded by Touria El Glaoui to create a dedicated space for contemporary African art in the global art market.
2. The fair features a wide range of artworks including painting, sculpture, photography, and installations from both established and emerging African artists.
3. 1:54 takes place annually in cities like London, New York, and Marrakech, expanding its influence and reach across different regions.
4. The fair not only focuses on selling art but also includes talks, panel discussions, and educational programs aimed at increasing understanding of contemporary African art.
5. By showcasing diverse artistic practices from Africa, 1:54 plays a crucial role in redefining the narrative around African art on the global stage.

Review Questions

• How does the 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair contribute to the visibility of African artists in the global art scene?
  • The 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair enhances the visibility of African artists by providing a dedicated platform that connects them with international galleries, collectors, and audiences. By showcasing a diverse range of artworks from both emerging and established artists, the fair highlights the richness of contemporary African art. This exposure helps to challenge stereotypes about African art and promotes greater appreciation and understanding of its unique cultural contexts.
• Discuss the impact of 1:54 on the growth of the art market specifically related to contemporary African artists.
  • 1:54 has significantly impacted the growth of the art market for contemporary African artists by elevating their profiles within the international scene. By featuring high-quality works and facilitating connections between artists and collectors, it has increased demand for African art. This demand is reflected in rising auction prices and representation of more African artists in prominent galleries worldwide, fostering a sense of legitimacy for this previously underrepresented segment of the art market.
• Evaluate how events like 1:54 can influence cultural perceptions and narratives surrounding contemporary African art on a global scale.
  • Events like 1:54 have a profound influence on cultural perceptions and narratives surrounding contemporary African art by reshaping how it is viewed both within Africa and internationally. By showcasing diverse artistic practices that reflect complex social issues, history, and identity, these events challenge prevailing stereotypes that often simplify or homogenize African culture. Consequently, they help foster a more nuanced understanding of Africa's contributions to global contemporary art, encouraging dialogue that recognizes its richness and diversity.

Related terms

Diaspora: A term referring to the dispersion of people from their original homeland, which, in the context of African art, encompasses artists and cultural expressions that emerge outside the continent.

Art Market: The economic system surrounding the buying and selling of art, which has seen a rising interest in African artists and their works due to events like the 1:54 Fair.

Curation: The process of selecting, organizing, and presenting artworks in exhibitions or fairs, which plays a vital role in how African art is showcased at events like 1:54.