1-54 African Art Fair

The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is a leading international event dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Established in 2013 by Touria El Glaoui, the fair has been held annually in London, New York, Marrakech, and Paris. The name 1-54 refers to the 54 countries that constitute the African continent, reflecting its commitment to promoting diverse perspectives and fostering cultural exchange.

1-54 features leading international galleries specialising in contemporary African art, presenting a wide range of mediums from traditional to cutting-edge installations. The fair has been instrumental in bridging the gap between African artists and an international audience, contributing significantly to the global discourse on contemporary art and amplifying the voices of African creators.

In addition to its dynamic showcase of diverse artworks, 1-54 extends its cultural impact through an impeccably curated catalogue on high-quality uncoated papers. This catalogue serves as a visual reference, offering in-depth insights into the exhibited pieces, the artists behind them, and the broader themes shaping contemporary African art. It not only acts as a documentation of the showcased artworks but also serves as a valuable resource for scholars, collectors, and art enthusiasts, fostering a deeper understanding of the narratives and contexts around contemporary African art.

1-54 also hosts a FORUM talks and Special Projects programme, providing a platform for engaging discussions, screenings, performances, workshops, and readings. These events foster dialogue and exchange, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries and inspiring a new generation of artists and curators from Africa and its diaspora.

Under Touria El Glaoui's leadership, 1-54 has expanded beyond London, with annual New York and Marrakech editions. Her vision and commitment to creating bridges between Africa and the rest of the world have brought African contemporary art to the global stage, reshaping perceptions and challenging stereotypes.

1-54's impact extends far beyond the art fair, with many African artists gaining international recognition and being acquired by major museums and private collections worldwide. Touria El Glaoui has become a leading voice in the global art community, advocating for equity and inclusivity, and her legacy is one of empowerment, innovation, and bridging worlds.