James Mishio

Contemporary African art is taking the world by storm, and these five must-attend fairs and biennales are at the heart of its rise. From the global powerhouse 1-54 to the electrifying ART X Lagos, and the prestigious Dak’Art Biennale, these events showcase the best of African artistic talent. Whether you’re a collector, curator, or art enthusiast, these fairs offer an immersive experience into the dynamic world of African creativity. Dive into the highlights, past record-breaking sales, and groundbreaking exhibitions that make these events unmissable.

As part of Brands with Art, Pumangol partnered with acclaimed Angolan street artist Thó Simões to create a unique fusion of industrial design and artistic expression. Simões painted five metal drums, drawing inspiration from Pumangol’s slogan Criar Boa Energia (Creating Good Energy). Using plants to symbolize pure energy and human figures to highlight his artistic signature, the project connects sustainability with the vibrancy of Angolan culture. The transformation was documented in a video that will accompany the exhibition, showcasing Pumangol’s commitment to the arts and its role in fostering cultural engagement.

A new Art Center and Artist Residency is taking shape in Maputo’s Dona Alice neighborhood. With 2,100m² of space, the center will include exhibition halls, artist residences, a digital library, and multi-use areas. Currently 30% complete, the self-funded project aims to train 300 artists annually, promote local art and crafts internationally, and contribute to Mozambique’s creative economy. Supported by the Secretary of State for Arts and Culture, this initiative seeks to professionalize the art sector and provide sustainable income opportunities for artists.

In March 2025, Washington, D.C.’s Black Lives Matter Plaza saw the removal of its famous street mural, first commissioned in 2020 as a symbol of protest against racial injustice. The decision, influenced by congressional threats to cut federal funding, has reignited debates about the role of public art in activism. While some view it as a political concession, others see it as an opportunity for new artistic expressions in the city. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced plans to integrate the plaza into the "America 250" initiative, encouraging new murals that reflect ongoing struggles for justice and equality.

On 5 March 2025, Christie's held its highly anticipated 20th/21st Century: London Evening Sale and The Art of the Surreal Evening Sale, achieving a combined total of £130.2 million. The auctions highlighted the sustained demand for contemporary and surrealist art, with key sales including René Magritte’s La reconnaissance infinie (£10.3 million), Michael Andrews' School IV: Barracuda under Skipjack Tuna (£6 million), and Francis Bacon’s Portrait of Man with Glasses III (£6.6 million). With a strong 94% sell-through rate and global participation, the event reaffirmed Christie's influence in the international art market.

For the Superbrands Angola 2024 edition, DHL partnered with renowned artist Paulo Amaral to produce Repacked, a thought-provoking artwork that reimagines the brand’s identity through the lens of sustainability and innovation. Amaral, known for his mixed-media approach and use of recycled materials, integrates DHL’s core elements—packaging labels, security stamps, and digital transformation themes—into a compelling visual narrative. This collaboration highlights how logistics and contemporary art intersect, reinforcing DHL’s commitment to environmental consciousness and excellence in the digital age.

African contemporary art has become a significant force in global auctions, with record-breaking sales and growing interest from collectors and institutions. This article explores the historical context behind its rise, key artists making an impact, the role of African galleries and international fairs, and future trends shaping the market. With increasing institutional acquisitions and emerging artistic hubs, African art is solidifying its presence in the global art scene, offering both cultural and investment opportunities.

The fusion of art and brand storytelling takes center stage in the 2024 edition of Superbrands Angola, where artist Gege collaborates with Mitsubishi Angola to create a striking and symbolic cover. Reflecting the essence of the brand’s values—exploration, adventure, and ambition—this artwork transforms the annual publication into a celebration of movement and discovery.