The Dakar Biennale, initially scheduled for May 16 to June 16, has been postponed to the period from November 7 to December 7, 2024. The opening ceremony is being held today at the Grand Théâtre, in the presence of the Head of State , Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye. This 15th edition, under the theme ‘The Wake, the Awakening, Xàll wi’, has the United States and Cape Verde as guests of honor.
Nearly 3,000 African and diaspora artists will participate in this event, organized under the direction of curator Salimata Diop. Despite the postponements, the biennial aims to be a symbol of resilience and evolution. The program includes various exhibitions throughout the capital, involving local and international artists.
The Minister of Culture, Khady Diène Gaye, visited the former Cap Manuel courthouse, site of several official exhibitions. For the first time in years, the design section returns with 58 artists. The biennial benefits from funding of 1.8 billion CFA francs from the State, supported by 291 million in private contributions.
Khady Diène Gaye stressed that the Biennale remains a state initiative, but has also attracted international interest, with the expected participation of culture ministers from Guinea-Bissau and Mali. A new direction aims to democratize the event, with spaces dedicated to children, to broaden access to art beyond elitist circles.
