Empowering African Art: +234Art Fair Returns for Its Second Edition

A Platform for Emerging Artists

Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the +234Art Fair is returning with a renewed mission to elevate African visual culture. Organised by Soto Gallery in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the fair presents a dedicated platform for emerging, unrepresented Nigerian artists to engage with audiences both locally and globally.

Exploring the Theme: Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art

The 2025 edition centres on the theme "Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art", highlighting how patronage fuels sustainability and growth within the country’s creative economy. According to Tola Akerele, founder of the fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, effective patronage is rooted in relationships that extend beyond monetary support, fostering continuity and cultural legacy.

A Vibrant Cultural Experience

Beyond exhibitions, the fair offers a multisensory experience. Visitors can expect a curated selection of paintings, photography, and sculptures alongside access to a bookstore, a children’s zone, masterclasses, and culinary spaces. Entry is free, underscoring the fair’s commitment to cultural accessibility, education, and economic opportunity.

A Collaborative Effort

Institutional support plays a crucial role in the fair’s impact. Partners such as Craneburg Construction, TOOF, and AFC continue to support this vision. Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to investing in Nigeria’s creative sector, calling it a "key pillar of economic expansion and international relevance."

Event Details

• Dates: March 27–31, 2025
• Venue: Ecobank Pan African Center (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos
• Time: From 10:00 a.m. daily
• Theme: Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art
• Admission: Free

Why It Matters

The +234Art Fair is not merely an exhibition—it is an engine of cultural diplomacy and a mechanism for economic development. It nurtures the next generation of artists while expanding the narrative of contemporary African art. Stakeholders from across the continent are invited to participate in this powerful movement of visibility, equity, and creative excellence.

Sources

• Africa.com – AFC Joins Ecobank and Soto Gallery
• Guardian.ng – Pushing Art Boundaries
• PM News Nigeria – Fair Returns to Lagos

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