Art X Lagos 2024 Launches Today with ‘Promised Lands’ Theme
Today marks the opening of Art X Lagos 2024, West Africa’s premier international art fair, which returns to The Federal Palace, Lagos, with an exploration of the theme “Promised Lands.” This year’s event, which runs until November 3rd, invites audiences to explore African identity, culture, and artistic expression through a variety of lenses and perspectives.
Founder Tokini Peterside-Schwebig emphasizes the theme’s relevance to African and Afro-descendant communities, addressing both reflection and aspiration in the continent’s quest for freedom and self-expression. Sharing her vision for the event, she expressed that: “‘Promised Lands’ is a theme that resonates deeply with our collective journey – reflecting on where we are and envisioning where we aspire to be. It was crucial for us to create a platform that not only anchors the African art movement but also drives meaningful conversations about the social, political, and cultural landscapes of our continent.”
Several large exhibitions at the centre of the event will set a transformative stage. Marcellina Akpojotor’s “Social Fabrics, Sustainable Threads” exhibition blends local textile waste with artistic storytelling, highlighting the importance of sustainability in the Lagos art scene. In addition, “Art Across Borders,” supported by the African Export-Import Bank and curated by Jumoke Sanwo, explores the shared “African Personality,” featuring six mid-career African and Caribbean artists whose works traverse borders and reconnect with ancestral narratives.
Beyond visual art, Art X Cinema, Art X Talks, and ART X Live incorporate discourse, film and music to connect the sounds and stories of past, present, and future Africa. Attendees may expect stimulating discussions with artists and curators, as well as live music performances that combine traditional and current African sounds. This year’s event also includes ART X Cinema, which showcases films from African and diaspora filmmakers, along with the Access ART X Prize exhibition by winners Julius Agbaje and Shabu Mwangi.
Through these curated spaces and immersive programs, Art X Lagos constantly remains a powerful platform for advancing African creativity and initiating dialogues that celebrate the continent’s resilience and cultural evolution. The 2024 fair will not only honour African artistry but also envision a future filled with new freedoms and collective strength.
