Each week, Africans Column curates a special list to celebrate Africans making a significant impact in the fields of art, architecture, and design. This week, we turn the spotlight on the trailblazers who are shaping the future of African art and taking it to global heights. From gallery owners to curators, these individuals have not only championed the work of African artists but have also played pivotal roles in amplifying African narratives in the international art world. As African art continues to rise in prominence, gallerists like Marwan Zakhem of Gallery 1957, Cécile Fakhoury of Galerie Cécile Fakhoury, Danda Jaroljmek of Circle Art Galler, yand many others have been instrumental in pushing boundaries, creating spaces for African artists to thrive, and showcasing their works on major platforms.
This week, however, we celebrate 20 gallerists and curators whose dedication to the promotion of African art is nothing short of extraordinary. These individuals were selected not only for their relentless work in elevating African artists but also for their commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions that reflect the rich cultural heritage and contemporary realities of Africa. They have been at the forefront of some of the world’s leading art fairs, including Art Basel, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, Frieze, and the Venice Biennale, providing African artists with global exposure and ensuring that their voices resonate on the international stage.
The influence of these gallerists extends beyond exhibitions and sales. They are reshaping how African art is perceived and valued globally, breaking down stereotypes, and pushing for a more inclusive and representative art market. Their galleries are more than just spaces—they are platforms for storytelling, activism, and cultural preservation. By honoring these 20 individuals, Africans Column recognizes their unwavering dedication to shaping the future of African art and making sure it gets the recognition it truly deserves.
Adeola Arthur Ayoola – Kanbi Projects (Nigeria)
Adeola Arthur Ayoola, a Nigerian art advisor and gallerist, founded Kanbi Projects in 2017. Based in London, Kanbi Projects is a curatorial platform and contemporary art gallery focusing on Black emerging and established artists from Africa and its global diaspora. Initially established as a nomadic curatorial practice, the project pivoted in 2020 to champion a select group of exceptional emerging and mid-career artists. Kanbi Projects adopts a collaborative ethos through its unique nomadic exhibition program, engaging with various spaces and audiences to showcase contemporary African art.
The gallery has organized notable exhibitions such as “Untangling the Perils that Tangle Us,” curated by Ayoola and Jumoke Sanwo, founder of the Revolving Art Incubator in Lagos, Nigeria. This exhibition featured some of the most exciting emerging artists of African descent, including Nigerian artists Julius Agbaje, Adesina Adegboyega, Odinakachi Okoroafor, Anne Adams, and Chiderah Bosah; US-based artist Austin Uzor; Canada-based artists Chukwudubem Ukaigwe and Iyunade Judah; and UK-based artists Hannah Uzor, Tobi Alexandra Falade, and Paul Majek.
Kanbi Projects continues to play a significant role in promoting contemporary African art, providing a platform for artists to engage with diverse audiences and fostering cross-cultural dialogues.
Adenrele Sonariwo – Rele Gallery (Nigeria / UK / USA)
Adenrele Sonariwo, a Nigerian art curator and former accountant, founded Rele Gallery in Lagos in 2015. Known as one of the leading contemporary art spaces in Nigeria, Rele Gallery is dedicated to showcasing both emerging and established African artists, offering a platform that amplifies African art on the global stage. Under Sonariwo’s leadership, the gallery has become a key player in promoting African art both locally and internationally, fostering a dynamic cultural exchange between African artists and the rest of the world.
In 2021, Rele Gallery expanded its footprint with the opening of a branch in Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone as the first African gallery in the city. The inaugural exhibition, Orita Meta – Crossroads, featured Nigerian female painters Marcellina Akpojotor, Tonia Nneji, and Chidinma Nnoli, underscoring the gallery’s commitment to elevating diverse African voices. This move reinforced Sonariwo’s vision of establishing Rele Gallery as a critical interface between the African and international art scenes.
The gallery regularly participates in prestigious international art fairs, including Art Basel Miami, The Armory Show, Liste Art Fair Basel, and Investec Cape Town Art Fair, solidifying its place in the global art market. Rele Gallery has also been instrumental in showcasing Nigerian talent at major events like the Venice Biennale, where Sonariwo curated Nigeria’s first pavilion in 2017.
In addition to its gallery spaces in Lagos, Los Angeles, and London, Rele Gallery operates the Rele Arts Foundation, which supports emerging African artists through programs like The Young Contemporaries. This initiative provides a platform for young talent, helping them gain international exposure and contribute to the global art dialogue.
Adenrele Sonariwo’s approach is deeply inspired by her Yoruba heritage and the rich cultural history of Nigeria. Her work seeks to challenge and redefine the narrative of African art, ensuring that it is not confined to a single story but instead reflects the diversity, complexities, and dynamism of the continent. Sonariwo’s belief in the transformative power of art is evident in her commitment to helping artists from disadvantaged backgrounds change the trajectory of their lives through their creative expressions.
Adora Mba – ADA Contemporary Art Gallery (Ghana)
Adora Mba, a British-Ghanaian art curator and advisor, founded ADA Contemporary Art Gallery in Accra, Ghana, in 2020. The gallery focuses on contemporary African art, providing a platform for emerging and established artists from the continent and its diaspora. ADA Gallery is committed to fostering artistic growth in the region, offering a space for artists to experiment and engage with diverse audiences.
The gallery has showcased works by artists such as Deborah Segun, Theresah Ankomah, Zandile Tshabalala, Araba Opoku, Samuel Olayombo, Abdur Rahman Muhammad, Youssra Raouchi, Ayobola Kekere-Ekun., among others. ADA Gallery has also participated in international art fairs, including Art X Lagos and 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, further establishing its presence in the global art scene.
Under Mba’s leadership, ADA Gallery continues to play a significant role in promoting contemporary African art, providing a platform for artists to engage with diverse audiences and fostering cross-cultural dialogues.
Ayo Adeyinka – TAFETA Gallery (UK/Nigeria)
Ayo Adeyinka, a Nigerian-British art dealer and advisor, founded TAFETA Gallery in London, UK, in 2013. The gallery specializes in 20th-century and contemporary African art, bridging the gap between African contemporary artists and international collectors. TAFETA has become a key player in the African art market in London, showcasing works by artists such as Yinka Shonibare CBE, Ben Enwonwu, Uzo Egonu, and Victor Ekpuk.
The gallery has participated in various international art fairs, including The Armory Show, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and Art Dubai, further establishing its presence in the global art scene. Under Adeyinka’s leadership, TAFETA continues to promote African art, providing a platform for artists to engage with diverse audiences and fostering cross-cultural dialogues.
Baylon Sandri – SMAC Gallery (South Africa)
Baylon Sandri, a South African art dealer and curator, is the director of SMAC Gallery, which was founded in 2007. With locations in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Stellenbosch, SMAC Gallery focuses on contemporary African art, representing both established and emerging artists from South Africa and the continent. The gallery has showcased works by artists such as Lhola Amira, Simphiwe Buthelezi, Masimba Hwati, Cyrus Kabiru, Bonolo Kavula, and Mary Sibande, among others. Under Sandri’s leadership, SMAC Gallery has participated in prestigious international art fairs, including Art Basel, The Armory Show, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and Arco Madrid, cementing its global presence.
SMAC Gallery originally opened in Stellenbosch on the first floor of the historic De Wet building, where it gained a reputation for presenting large, museum-quality exhibitions that were accompanied by well-researched catalogues and monographs. In 2011, the gallery expanded by opening a second location in central Cape Town, later relocating to a 1,200-square-meter space in Woodstock, which has become a key part of Cape Town’s gallery precinct. The gallery continues to push boundaries with exhibitions that engage both local and international audiences and contribute to the wider artistic discourse.
In addition to exhibiting a diverse range of South African and African artists, SMAC encourages international exchange by collaborating with well-known international artists like Richard Long and Arnaldo Pomodoro. The gallery organizes artist residencies in Cape Town and facilitates exchange programs that provide opportunities for African artists to engage with global audiences. SMAC’s commitment to fostering a dynamic art scene in Cape Town has contributed to the city’s reputation as a hub for contemporary African art, and the gallery remains at the forefront of promoting African artists on the international stage.
Daudi Karungi – Afriart Gallery (Uganda)
Daudi Karungi, born in Kampala, Uganda, is a renowned artist and curator who founded Afriart Gallery (AAG) in 2002. The gallery has played a pivotal role in introducing Ugandan contemporary art to the international stage, providing a platform for emerging East African artists. AAG represents notable artists like Ian Mwesiga, Richard Atugonza, and Stacey Gillian Abe, and has participated in prominent international art fairs such as Art X Lagos, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and Investec Cape Town Art Fair.
Karungi’s commitment to promoting contemporary African art extends beyond the gallery. He co-founded START, a journal of arts and culture criticism, and the Kampala Arts Trust (KART), which works towards establishing a modern art museum in Uganda. This museum aims to facilitate research, exchange programs, and serve as a venue for local exhibitions. Karungi has also directed the Kampala Art Biennale since 2014 and has been featured in major publications like The New York Times.
Afriart Gallery has become a key player in the global art scene, representing contemporary African artists whose works are showcased at major museums, biennales, and art fairs around the world, including Art Basel, Expo Chicago, and AKAA Paris. Through his gallery and advocacy, Karungi has supported numerous artists, fostering an environment where their works gain the international visibility and recognition they deserve.
Dolly Kola-Balogun – Retro Africa (Nigeria)
Dolly Kola-Balogun, a Nigerian art collector and curator, founded Retro Africa in Abuja, Nigeria, in 2015. The gallery is a contemporary art platform dedicated to promoting the works of African and African diaspora artists. Retro Africa has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to supporting emerging and mid-career artists, providing them with a space to experiment and grow in their practice. The gallery’s mission is to redefine African art within the global context, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering cultural exchange.
Retro Africa has exhibited works by artists such as Dennis Osadebe, Marcellina Akpojotor, Niyi Olagunju, and Victor Ehikhamenor. The gallery is known for organizing thought-provoking and innovative exhibitions that challenge conventional narratives of African art. Retro Africa also champions women artists and voices from underrepresented communities, ensuring a diverse and inclusive representation of contemporary African art.
In addition to exhibitions, Retro Africa has participated in international art fairs, including 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair and Investec Cape Town Art Fair, expanding its global footprint and providing greater visibility for the artists it represents. Under Kola-Balogun’s leadership, Retro Africa continues to play a crucial role in reshaping perceptions of African art on the global stage.
Farah Fakhri – Galerie Farah Fakhri (Côte d’Ivoire)
Farah Fakhri, an Ivorian gallerist of Lebanese descent, founded Galerie Farah Fakhri in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The gallery focuses on promoting contemporary African and Middle Eastern art, providing a platform for artists from the continent and beyond to engage with global audiences. Farah Fakhri is deeply passionate about fostering cultural dialogues and bridging the gap between African and international art markets. The gallery is known for its diverse and dynamic exhibitions, often highlighting the intersection of traditional and contemporary artistic practices.
Galerie Farah Fakhri represents a roster of emerging and mid-career artists, with a particular focus on West African talent. The gallery has participated in various international art fairs, including Art X Lagos and Art Dubai, positioning itself as a key player in the promotion of African art to a global audience. Farah Fakhri’s dedication to showcasing the richness and diversity of African contemporary art has cemented her gallery’s reputation as a leading space in Abidjan’s art scene.
Liza Essers – Goodman Gallery (South Africa/UK/USA)
Born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, in 1974, Liza Essers is the director of the Goodman Gallery, a leading platform for contemporary African and international art with locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, London, and New York. Essers, the child of immigrants, grew up with a deep awareness of identity and displacement. Her mother, a first-generation Libyan refugee of Jewish descent, and her father, the child of Lithuanian immigrants, both influenced her understanding of migration, diaspora, and the complexities of identity—issues that are often reflected in the work shown at her gallery.
Essers took over Goodman Gallery in 2008, introducing a bold curatorial vision that centers on promoting socially engaged, politically conscious art. The gallery represents influential African and international artists, such as William Kentridge, Shirin Neshat, Yinka Shonibare, and Alfredo Jaar, and addresses critical global issues such as human rights, environmental activism, and decolonization. Under Essers’ leadership, the gallery has participated in major international art fairs, including Art Basel and Frieze, and has become a powerful voice in the global contemporary art scene, known for its support of groundbreaking, thought-provoking artists.
Marème Malong Samb – Galerie MAM (Senegal)
Marème Malong Samb, a Senegalese art dealer and gallerist, founded Galerie MAM in Dakar, Senegal. The gallery has established itself as a prominent space for contemporary African art, showcasing a wide range of artists from Senegal and across the continent. Galerie MAM is deeply committed to fostering a vibrant art scene in Dakar, promoting both emerging and established artists who reflect the rich cultural heritage of Senegal and the broader African continent.
The gallery’s roster includes influential Senegalese artists such as Ousmane Ndiaye Dago, Soly Cissé, and Viyé Diba, whose works explore themes of identity, memory, and social commentary. Galerie MAM has become known for its diverse programming, which includes solo exhibitions, group shows, and interdisciplinary collaborations. The gallery has also been an active participant in international art fairs, including 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair and Dak’Art – the Dakar Biennale, further enhancing its global presence.
Under Samb’s leadership, Galerie MAM plays a crucial role in the promotion of contemporary African art, providing a platform for dialogue between artists, collectors, and curators, and contributing to the development of Dakar’s vibrant cultural scene.
Mariane Ibrahim – Mariane Ibrahim Gallery (USA/France/Mexico)
Mariane Ibrahim, a Somali-French art dealer, founded Mariane Ibrahim Gallery in Seattle, Washington, in 2012, before relocating to Chicago in 2019. The gallery specializes in contemporary African art and the African diaspora, representing a roster of influential and innovative artists whose works challenge perceptions of identity, history, and culture. In 2021, Ibrahim opened a second gallery space in Paris, France, further expanding her international influence. By 2023, she had expanded to Mexico City, creating a presence on three continents, each gallery embodying a unique cultural approach and international scope.
Ibrahim represents a diverse group of artists, including Amoako Boafo, Clotilde Jiménez, Zohra Opoku, Florine Démosthène, Raphaël Barontini, and Patrick Eugène, whose works have gained significant recognition in the global art market. Known for her keen eye for emerging talent and commitment to championing underrepresented voices, Ibrahim’s gallery emphasizes art that engages with themes of race, identity, and the legacy of colonialism, making it a crucial platform for contemporary African and diaspora art.
Her journey in the art world began with challenges—opening a gallery in Seattle with no prior experience—but her determination and vision led to her becoming a key figure in the global art scene. After a successful move to Chicago, she introduced her gallery with a solo show by Ayana V. Jackson, setting the tone for the gallery’s future as a space that amplifies African and African American voices. The Paris gallery, located on Avenue Matignon, showcases young artists in an unexpected setting, bridging cultural and geographical gaps.
Her gallery has participated in major international art fairs, including Art Basel, Frieze, and 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, gaining a reputation as one of the most important spaces for contemporary African art. Mariane Ibrahim’s dedication to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and promoting African artists on the global stage has earned her widespread recognition, positioning her gallery as a leading force in the international art world.
Monna Mokoena – Gallery MOMO (South Africa)
Monna Mokoena is the founder of Gallery MOMO, one of South Africa’s premier contemporary art galleries, based in Johannesburg. Established in 2003, the gallery is dedicated to promoting contemporary African art while fostering a platform for both emerging and established artists. Through a focus on painting, sculpture, photography, and video art, Mokoena has cultivated a curatorial practice that tackles critical societal issues such as identity, social justice, and history.
Gallery MOMO represents renowned South African artists like Mary Sibande, Zanele Muholi, and Nelson Makamo, alongside international talents such as Cyrus Kabiru and Andrew Tshabangu. The gallery’s participation in major global art fairs, including Art Basel Miami, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and Investec Cape Town Art Fair, has cemented its status as a key player in the international art market. Monna Mokoena’s vision and dedication have played a pivotal role in elevating contemporary African art to global prominence.
Nike Davies-Okundaye – Nike Gallery (Nigeria)
Nike Davies-Okundaye is a Nigerian artist, textile designer, and founder of Nike Art Gallery, which is one of the largest privately owned art galleries in West Africa. Established in Lagos, Nigeria, the gallery has become an iconic space for Nigerian art, housing over 8,000 pieces of contemporary and traditional African artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. Nike Art Gallery is not only a space for showcasing art but also serves as a cultural center where visitors can learn about traditional Yoruba craftsmanship, such as adire (tie-dye) and batik techniques.
Nike Art Gallery represents numerous Nigerian artists, both emerging and established, and has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s contemporary art scene. Artists such as Tola Wewe, Segun Aiyesan, and Dotun Popoola have been featured in the gallery’s exhibitions. Beyond exhibitions, the gallery has participated in local and international art fairs and events, expanding the reach of Nigerian art to a global audience. Nike Davies-Okundaye’s passion for preserving traditional Nigerian art forms and promoting contemporary African artists has made her a celebrated figure in the art world.
Obida Obioha – ODA Art (Nigeria)
Obida Obioha, a Nigerian gallerist and art consultant, founded ODA Art, a contemporary art gallery based in Lagos, Nigeria. ODA Art aims to promote contemporary African art with a focus on emerging and mid-career Nigerian artists. The gallery is committed to fostering a deeper appreciation for African art both locally and internationally through exhibitions, collaborations, and art fairs.
ODA Art represents a roster of talented Nigerian artists whose works explore themes of identity, culture, and social change. The gallery has been actively involved in participating in international art fairs, such as Art X Lagos, providing greater visibility for its artists and contributing to the growing appreciation of Nigerian contemporary art on the global stage. Obida Obioha’s dedication to nurturing artistic talent has made ODA Art an important platform in the Nigerian art scene.
Odile Tevie – Nubuke Foundation (Ghana)
Odile Tevie is the co-founder and director of the Nubuke Foundation, a contemporary art and cultural institution based in Accra, Ghana. Established in 2006, the Foundation is dedicated to preserving, recording, and promoting Ghanaian culture through the visual arts, heritage, and education. Under Odile’s leadership, Nubuke has become a vital space for artistic and cultural exchange, offering exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programs that support the creative practice of Ghanaian artists at all stages of their careers. The Foundation has represented notable artists such as James Barnor, Nana Danso, Bright Ackwerh, and Na Chainkua Reindorf, while participating in prestigious international art fairs like Art X Lagos and 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.
Odile’s journey began after graduating from the University of Ghana in 1986 and later working in IT, managing the operations of Ghana International Bank in London. Her passion for promoting African art led her to open her own gallery, Black Swan, in London, where she showcased works from Ghanaian, Togolese, and Nigerian artists. This experience fueled her vision for Nubuke Foundation, which she co-founded to provide alternative educational opportunities that emphasize Ghanaian culture. The Foundation’s mission to preserve cultural heritage reflects Odile’s belief in the importance of safeguarding what makes Ghanaians unique amidst globalization.
With branches in both Accra and Wa, in the Upper West region, Nubuke Foundation has a broad reach across the country. The Accra campus features a multi-faceted art gallery, studio spaces, artist residencies, a co-working area, a library, and a commercial art and gift shop. In addition to its wide-ranging cultural programming—including exhibitions, poetry readings, film screenings, and workshops—the Foundation’s Wa branch extends its efforts to support creative and cultural development in northern Ghana. Nubuke Foundation’s ongoing contributions were recognized when it received the Tourist Attraction of the Year 2016 award by the Ghana Tourist Authority.
Olugbemiro Arinoso – Afinity Gallery (Nigeria)
Olugbemiro Arinoso is the founder and director of Afinity Gallery, a contemporary art gallery based in Lagos, Nigeria. Afinity Gallery is committed to showcasing the works of African artists, with a focus on contemporary and cutting-edge artistic expressions. The gallery serves as a platform for emerging and mid-career artists, offering them the opportunity to exhibit their works and engage with a broader audience.
Afinity Gallery has a diverse roster of artists working in various media, from painting and sculpture to photography and digital art. The gallery has participated in several local and international art fairs, helping to raise the profile of Nigerian contemporary art. Olugbemiro Arinoso’s dedication to promoting African art and supporting emerging talent has made Afinity Gallery a notable space in Nigeria’s growing art scene.
Oyinkansola Dada – DADA Gallery (Nigeria)
Oyinkansola Dada is the founder of DADA Gallery, a contemporary art space based in Lagos, Nigeria, that was established in 2019. The gallery is known for its focus on young, emerging African artists, providing them with a platform to experiment, innovate, and showcase their work to a broader audience. DADA Gallery is dedicated to fostering a new generation of artists whose works engage with contemporary issues and narratives in Africa.
The gallery has a strong emphasis on representation, particularly highlighting the works of female artists and voices from underrepresented communities. DADA Gallery’s roster includes artists such as Amadi Igwe, Osaru Obaseki, and Victor Adewale. The gallery has participated in international art fairs like Art X Lagos, helping to position its artists on the global stage. Oyinkansola Dada’s vision for the gallery is to continue to push the boundaries of contemporary African art, making DADA Gallery a vibrant and innovative space.
Rakeb Sile – Addis Fine Art (Ethiopia)
Rakeb Sile is the co-founder of Addis Fine Art, which she established in 2016 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, alongside her business partner, Mesai Haileleul. Addis Fine Art is one of the leading galleries in Africa, focusing on contemporary African art, with a special emphasis on Ethiopian artists. The gallery has gained international recognition for its strong curatorial vision and commitment to showcasing artists whose works engage with themes of identity, history, and culture. Artsy recognized Addis Fine Art as one of the “Most Important Young Galleries in the World” in 2019, further cementing its status in the global art market.
Addis Fine Art represents a wide range of Ethiopian artists, including Dawit Adnew, Adiskidan Ambaye, Amel Bashier, Tesfaye Bekele, Merikokeb Berhanu, Tizta Berhanu, Addis Gezehagn, Engdaye Lemma, Tadesse Mesfin, Selome Muleta, Nirit Takele, Nahom Teklehaimanot, Noah Beyene, Skunder Boghossian, Girmachew Getnet, Ermias Kifleyesus, Tsedaye Makonnen, Helina Metaferia, Tariku Shiferaw, Tesfaye Urgessa, Wosene Worke Kosrof, and Zerihun Yetimgeta, known for their innovative and thought-provoking works. The gallery also operates a second location in London, expanding its international reach.
Addis Fine Art has participated in major international art fairs such as 1-54 London, Liste Basel, EXPO Chicago, Abu Dhabi Art Fair, Frieze London, and Untitled Art Miami, showcasing the works of artists like Selome Muleta, Merikokeb Berhanu, and Amel Bashier. These exhibitions highlight the gallery’s commitment to elevating Ethiopian and African artists on a global stage.
In addition to its international success, Addis Fine Art serves as a regional incubator for undiscovered talent in its Addis Ababa location, working closely with other local galleries and foundations to promote sustainable art ecosystems on the African continent. The gallery’s international program showcases emerging and mid-career artists from Ethiopia, the Horn of Africa, and its diasporas, offering a critical platform for African contemporary art. Rakeb Sile’s dedication has positioned Addis Fine Art as a key player in the global art scene, championing Ethiopian artists and fostering dialogue between Africa and the rest of the world.
Valentina Mintah – Efie Gallery (UAE)
Valentina Mintah is the co-founder of Efie Gallery, which she launched in 2021 in Dubai, UAE, alongside her sons, Koby and Kwame Mintah. Efie Gallery specializes in promoting African art, with a strong focus on contemporary Ghanaian artists. The gallery’s mission is to bridge the gap between Africa and the Middle East, offering a platform for African artists to engage with international collectors and audiences, particularly within the UAE.
Efie Gallery represents a wide array of prominent African artists, including El Anatsui, Aïda Muluneh, Yaw Owusu, Isshaq Ismail, Maggie Otieno, Slawn, María Magdalena Campos-Pons, Abdoulaye Konaté, J.K. Bruce-Vanderpuije, Victor Ekpuk, Betty Acquah, Kwaku Yaro, and Theresah Ankomah. Since its inception, Efie Gallery has participated in prestigious art fairs like Art Dubai, helping to elevate the profile of African artists within the Middle Eastern and global art landscapes.
In 2022, Efie Gallery opened its permanent space in Al Khayat Art Avenue, part of Dubai’s Al Quoz Creative Zone, which is set to become a world-leading hub for creativity and entrepreneurship. Efie Gallery has established itself as a global platform for significant African artists and is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural exchanges between Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. The gallery also operates a dynamic residency program, facilitating collaborations between artists, institutions, and community members, supporting artists in the development of their narratives and visions.
The gallery’s name, “Efie,” meaning “home” in the Ghanaian Twi language, reflects the gallery’s commitment to exploring themes of belonging, culture, history, and identity for communities across the world. Additionally, Efie Gallery celebrates the intersection of art and music by showcasing the founders’ collection of rare vinyl and shellac records from around the globe. Under Valentina Mintah’s leadership, alongside the involvement of her sons, Efie Gallery has become a key player in the promotion and advancement of contemporary African art on the global stage.
Yasmine Berrada Sounni – Loft Art Gallery (Morocco)
Yasmine Berrada Sounni is the co-founder of Loft Art Gallery, established in 2009 in Casablanca, Morocco. The gallery is one of the leading contemporary art spaces in North Africa, specializing in showcasing works by Moroccan and African artists. Loft Art Gallery is renowned for its innovative curatorial approach, emphasizing the fusion of contemporary art with traditional Moroccan aesthetics, fostering dialogue between local and international art practices.
The gallery represents artists such as Mous Lamrabat, Mohamed Melehi, Farid Belkahia, and others, who are celebrated for their significant contributions to modern and contemporary art in Morocco and beyond. Loft Art Gallery has participated in major international art fairs, including Art Dubai, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and Art Basel Paris, where it showcased a selection of works by Mohamed Melehi. Yasmine Berrada Sounni’s vision for the gallery is to continue promoting contemporary African art while fostering collaborations that push the boundaries of artistic expression.
In conclusion, the contributions of these influential gallery directors and their respective galleries highlight the vibrant and dynamic landscape of contemporary African art. Each director brings a unique vision and commitment to showcasing the diverse narratives and talents emerging from the continent, effectively bridging cultural gaps and fostering international dialogues. From the innovative platforms of Goodman Gallery and Gallery MOMO to the pioneering efforts of Efie Gallery, these galleries not only promote the works of established artists but also nurture emerging talents, ensuring that African art continues to gain recognition and appreciation on a global scale. As they participate in prestigious art fairs and engage with collectors worldwide, these galleries play a crucial role in redefining the perception of African art and reinforcing its significance within the international art community. Through their dedication and vision, they are helping to create a lasting impact, paving the way for future generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.
