The Senegalese capital will host, from November 7, 2024, the 15th edition of the Biennale of Contemporary African Art, Dak’Art, which will be held until December 7. This prestigious event is one of the biggest meetings in African art. It attracts artists, collectors, art critics and enthusiasts from all over the world. The event celebrates the richness and diversity of artistic creation on the continent.
Nearly 70 artists selected within the official framework
Under the theme of “Resilience”, this edition highlights the challenges that African artists face, such as issues of social justice, environment and cultural identity. Through their works, the creators address various subjects, ranging from the economic and social realities of the continent to spiritual and aesthetic aspirations. This theme also aims to celebrate the ability of African artists to overcome obstacles to find a place on the international scene.
As part of the “in” festival, around 70 artists from Africa and the diaspora will exhibit their works in the most emblematic spaces of Dakar, such as the Museum of Black Civilizations and the National Art Gallery. This selection includes both established artists and new talents. This demonstrates the diversity of approaches and mediums explored by contemporary African creators.
An equally vibrant platform for “off”
In addition to the official exhibition, the “off” festival will bring together an almost equivalent number of artists exhibiting in galleries, cultural centers, public spaces and other atypical places in Dakar and its surroundings. This “off” component of the biennial allows a greater number of artists, often less known, to present their works and benefit from the visibility offered by this global event.
With its growing reputation, Dak’Art attracts many internationally renowned collectors and gallery owners, who come to discover rare works and support African artists. This audience helps position contemporary African art on the global market, thus offering artists career prospects on an international scale and stimulating recognition of the continent’s art.
Conferences and round tables to reflect on the future of African art
Alongside the exhibitions, Dak’Art offers a program of conferences, round tables and workshops that bring together art critics, curators, artists and researchers. These meetings are an opportunity to address questions about the place of African art in the world, economic and cultural issues, as well as the role of new technologies in contemporary artistic creation.
The Biennale benefits from strong support from the Senegalese authorities, who consider Dak’Art to be an important showcase for national culture. African and international institutional partners are also mobilizing to strengthen the event, with grants and initiatives aimed at improving the visibility of African artists and stimulating the development of the artistic sector on the continent.
An economic impact for Dakar and its inhabitants
Beyond its artistic importance, Dak’Art represents a significant economic impact for Dakar. The influx of international visitors boosts the tourism sector and benefits local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to artisans and transport. This economic dimension makes Dak’Art a driver of development for the Senegalese capital and a source of income for many residents.
The works presented during this biennial also address themes such as immigration, climate change, social injustice and African traditions. Artists use their art to raise awareness, express their points of view and invite visitors to think about current issues, making Dak’Art a space of engagement where art becomes a vector of social awareness.
