From June 17 to 22, 2025, Basel will host the inaugural Africa Basel – Contemporary African Art Fair, providing a long-overdue platform for contemporary African art in one of the world’s leading art cities. The fair aims to bring the diversity and innovation of the African art scene to an international audience.
Why an Art Fair for African Art?
Despite growing recognition in the global art market, many African artists remain underrepresented in major institutions and fairs. Africa Basel seeks to address this imbalance, showcasing the richness and cultural diversity of contemporary African art. By fostering exposure and dialogue, the fair contributes to the decolonization of the art market and enables a deeper engagement with African perspectives and narratives.
A Much-Needed Stage for African Art
Basel has long been a central hub of the international art market, yet contemporary African art has been largely absent. Africa Basel fills this gap by highlighting art from Africa and the African diaspora. Running parallel to the renowned Art Basel, the fair broadens perspectives in the art world. With carefully curated exhibitions, high-caliber discussions, and networking opportunities, Africa Basel will be an essential meeting point for collectors, experts, and art lovers alike.
Top Exhibitors & A Dynamic Program
The fair will feature works by both established and emerging artists from across Africa and its diaspora. In addition to exhibitions, Africa Basel will serve as a platform for in-depth discussions, featuring a diverse program of panel talks, artist conversations, and thematic exhibitions. This engaging format highlights the significance of African art in the global context.
Africa as a Key Driver of Contemporary Art
In recent years, African art has gained increasing recognition and global significance. Africa Basel will contribute to this momentum by giving artists greater visibility and institutional support. The fair aims to establish itself as a vital link between African and international art scenes and a permanent fixture in the global art calendar.
The Founders & Curatorial Board
The Africa Basel Art Fair was founded by Sven Eisenhut-Hug and Benjamin Füglister, both experienced figures in the international art world.
Eisenhut-Hug is the founding director of photo basel, Switzerland’s leading international art fair dedicated to photography.Füglister is the founder of the CAP Prize for African photography and has organized numerous exhibitions and art projects focused on African art.
The curatorial board consists of leading international experts in African art, including:
- Azu Nwagbogu – Founder of the African Artists’ Foundation and curator of the LagosPhoto Festival, one of the most influential voices in contemporary African art.
- Michèle Sandoz – Managing director of Grisebach Switzerland, former global VIP strategy lead at Art Basel, and board member of the Lagos Biennale.
- Serge Tiroche – Art collector and founder of Africa First, a support program for emerging African artists.
- Dr. Greer Valley – Senior curator at Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town, specializing in the global presentation of African art.
Visitor Information
- Event: Africa Basel – Contemporary African Art Fair
- Date: June 17 – 22, 2025Location: Basel, Switzerland (exact venue TBA)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Tickets: Available online (pricing and details to be announced)
- Für weitere Details und aktuelle Informationen besuchen Sie bitte die offizielle Website der Messe:
Africa Basel promises to be a landmark event for the recognition and promotion of contemporary African art. Art enthusiasts should not miss this extraordinary opportunity!