The Investec Cape Town Art Fair (ICTAF) is gearing up for a milestone 13th edition in 2026, promising significant growth and innovation. This year’s fair aims to deepen its impact on the contemporary art landscape by expanding its physical space, introducing fresh curated programs, and enhancing visitor engagement — all framed by the evocative theme, Listen.
Set to take place from February 20 to 22, 2026, the fair will increase its footprint, creating more room to accommodate a wider range of exhibitors and to foster meaningful interactions between local and global art communities. This expansion emphasizes the fair’s commitment to creating a space where diverse voices are heard and valued.
A key highlight of this transformation is the relocation of the talks program to a newly designed auditorium within the exhibition hall, positioning conversation and exchange at the core of the visitor experience. Alongside these talks, interactive workshops will invite attendees to connect directly with artists, curators, and thought leaders, reinforcing the fair’s goal of fostering active participation and reflection.
The 2026 edition will showcase a dynamic program divided into five main sections and four curated sections. These include Tomorrows/Today, curated by Dr. Mariella Franzoni from Barcelona; SOLO, led by Celine Seror from Amsterdam; Generations, curated by Tandazani Dhlakama from Toronto; and Cabinet/Record, overseen by Beata America from Cape Town. These curated segments complement established sections such as Main, Lookout, Editions, Connect, and the revamped retail area, Capsule.
Adding to the fair’s evolving creative scope is the launch of a dedicated Performance project, embracing multidisciplinary practices and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Special Projects will further enrich the program, offering innovative experiences beyond traditional exhibitions.
In recognition of outstanding contributions to contemporary art, ICTAF will maintain its tradition of prestigious awards while introducing new honors. Notably, the ORMS International Photography Prize debuts in 2026, celebrating excellence in contemporary photography by artists featured in the fair. The Investec Emerging Artist Award continues to spotlight promising South African talents who are unaffiliated with institutions, while the Tomorrows/Today Prize, supported by Fiera Milano Exhibitions Africa, recognizes the most compelling presentation within that section, judged by an international panel led by Dr. Franzoni. Additionally, the RDC Acquisition Prize, presented by RDC Property Group, awards an artist whose work aligns with the company’s values, with the winning piece displayed in a prominent RDC property.
Laura Vincenti, Director of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, remarked, “These awards embody our belief that recognition drives innovation. As the fair expands, we are increasingly committed to uplifting emerging voices that shape our collective artistic future.”
With Listen as its thematic heart, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2026 seeks to be a vital hub for discovery, dialogue, and genuine connection within contemporary African art and the wider global scene. The fair’s enhanced platform reflects its role as an essential meeting point for artists, curators, collectors, and audiences eager to engage with bold new ideas and creative expression.
For more details and updates, visit the official website at www.investeccapetownartfair.co.za.
