Adewole Damola

In 2026, the market for African contemporary art is flourishing. But for new collectors, a question remains: should you collect what you love, or what may yield returns? This guide explores the emotional and financial dimensions of building an art collection with meaning and value. 

African contemporary art has exploded onto the global stage — not as a fleeting trend, but as a fundamental shift in how artistic value, cultural power and visual narratives are defined. Driven by market expansion, institutional interest, new platforms, and a growing generation of Black and African diasporic voices, this moment marks a re‑acceleration of recognition, influence and economic relevance.

Sherin ElBaroudi just made her debut at the 2025 Beijing Biennale with a large-scale painting that resonates with the exhibition’s theme of "Coexistence." Her work engages Islamic philosophy, contemporary theory, and layered visual storytelling to reflect on the human self in a fractured world.

The fifth edition of Intersections brings together 27 Angolan artists and over 60 artworks, showcasing the country’s rich aesthetic diversity, intergenerational dialogue, and the creative force shaping contemporary African art.

Collectors and philanthropists Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez have donated 36 artworks by African and African diaspora artists to the Tate. The major gift underscores institutions’ increasing commitment to diversifying their collections and elevating underrepresented voices.Collectors and philanthropists Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez have donated 36 artworks by African and African diaspora artists to the Tate. The major gift underscores institutions’ increasing commitment to diversifying their collections and elevating underrepresented voices.

Afrikanizm Art, the Luso‑Angolan platform for contemporary African and Afro‑diasporic art, has formalised partnerships with galleries in the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia. These alliances will integrate gallery networks with Afrikanizm’s digital platform, amplify artists’ reach, and support collaborative exhibitions. It's a bold step in positioning Black art not on the margins, but at the centre of the global art market.

Afrikanizm Art launches a resale feature for collectors, enabling artworks previously acquired on the platform to be resold with curatorial support. This move opens a new chapter in the African contemporary art ecosystem — connecting collecting with long-term value creation.