1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is one of the leading global platforms dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Every year, it brings together galleries, artists, and collectors in cities like London, Marrakech, and New York. The fair isn’t just about selling art, it’s about showcasing the depth, diversity, and innovation coming out of the continent and its global communities.
I had the chance to visit the New York edition this year and it was really impressive. The paintings, sculptures, and stories behind the works were powerful and stayed with me. Getting to talk with some of the gallery owners was also really insightful, hearing directly from the people representing these artists added so much context to what was on view. Here are some of my favorite pieces from the fair.
Represented by: Gallery Article 15
This piece stood out immediately. Made from recycled textiles, lace, and beading, La Gardienne blends photography with embroidery in a way that feels both sacred and modern. The figure, dressed in fabric and thread, stares calmly ahead, like a guardian of memory. You can feel the care in every stitch. Malaika, who lives and works in Kinshasa, brings Congolese material culture into the spotlight with tenderness and strength.
Leandro Mbomio Nsue, often called “The Black Picasso,” was a groundbreaking sculptor from Equatorial Guinea whose work merged Bantu identity with European technique. Trained in Spain and connected to figures like Salvador Dalí, Mbomio used his art to explore themes of power, memory, and African pride.
La Sapologie is more than bold suits and bright colours; it’s a culture where style becomes a living art form. Born from a colonial past, the Sapeurs turned European dress codes into something personal and powerful. From Brazzaville to Kinshasa, they continually reinvent what luxury means, blending designer pieces with local touches. This is a style of pride, resistance, and a reminder that fashion can rewrite history.
Ghanaian artist Cornelius Annor Jr. (b. 1990) creates portraits that feel like memory. In a space where African art is often expected to be loud or political, Annor offers something more intimate. This piece explores his background, visual language, and the significance of his perspective today.