Marrakech 54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Greetings Warriors!
Today, I’m taking you on a virtual stroll through the colorful alleys of Marrakech, Morocco, to uncover the treasures of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair. This isn’t just any art fair; it’s a vibrant celebration of African art and artists, a space where culture, creativity, and conversation intersect in the most beautiful ways.
The Heartbeat of Marrakech: 1-54 Unveiled
Imagine a place where the pulse of Africa's art beats the loudest, a space where creativity knows no bounds and every corner tells a story. Welcome to 1-54 Marrakech, the art fair that's painting the global canvas with the hues of African heritage, one masterpiece at a time. Launched as an offshoot of its London parent, the fair has become a pivotal platform for African art, showcasing over 60 of the most influential contemporary artists from Africa and its diaspora. But, why Marrakech, you ask? This city isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a participant, its rich history and vibrant culture weaving seamlessly with the art on display, creating an experience that’s as enchanting as it is enlightening.
Marrakech: 1-54
A Journey Begins
Founded in 2013 by the visionary Touria El Glaoui, 1-54 has carved its niche as the premier platform for contemporary African art, transcending borders to celebrate the rich tapestry of African and diasporic artistic expression. With editions in London, New York, Marrakech, and a pop-up in Paris, 1-54 is more than an art fair; it's a global movement.
As we navigate through the corridors of time, from its London inception to the vibrant launch in Marrakech in February 2018, 1-54 has been a beacon of inspiration and dialogue, uniting artists and collectors in a symphony of cultural exchange.
Touria El Glaoui - Interview Magazine(Victoria Stevens)
Marrakech: A Canvas Like No Other
Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech offers a backdrop that's as enchanting as the art it hosts. With its debut in 2018, 1-54 Marrakech has become a crucible of creativity, where the ancient meets the avant-garde. Here, amidst the echoes of history and the whispers of the Medina, art finds a home, and artists, a global stage.
Abdelmalek Berhiss, Untitled, 2023, Acrylic on canvas, 150 x 150 cm. Courtesy of Galerie Tindouf, Marrakech
The Details Unfold
For those marking their calendars, the fair's rhythm unfolded early this month in February, with exclusive previews for the VIPs and press, followed by public admissions that invite the world to feast on the visual banquet, spanning from February 10-11(only this weekend). From the hushed anticipations of the preview days to the bustling excitement of the public openings, 1-54 Marrakech is a testament to the power of art in bridging worlds.
Zanele Muholi, Ziphi II, Emhlabeni, 2019 Baryta print 60 x 52 cm, Edition of 8 + 2 AP
A Tapestry of Tales
At the heart of 1-54 lies a commitment to diversity and dialogue. The fair's name itself, referencing the 54 countries that make up the African continent, is a reminder of the multitude of narratives waiting to be told. Through the works of leading international galleries, each piece, each stroke, carries the whispers of the past and the dreams of the future.
Mohamed El baz, Hommage à Léonard de Vinci, 2023, Photography and printing on plexiglas, 80 x 60 cm, Ed. ⅓. Courtesy of L’Atelier 21, Casablanca, Morocco
The Vibrance of the Vernacular
What sets 1-54 apart is its unwavering focus on contemporary African art. From the visceral paintings that challenge our perceptions to the sculptures that weave stories of heritage and hope, the fair is a celebration of the now, a mirror reflecting the evolving soul of the continent and its diaspora.
Joana Choumali, Give yourself what you need , 2023, Embroidery on digital photography printed on canvas , 35 x 35 cm . Courtesy of Loft Art Gallery.
Conversations and Connections
Beyond the visual feast, 1-54 Marrakech nurtures the mind and the spirit. Through artist talks, panel discussions, and special projects, the fair fosters a culture of learning and sharing, where every voice finds an ear, and every opinion, a platform. It's here, in the confluence of ideas, that the true essence of 1-54 comes alive.
Ousmane Bâ, Dive from the sky, 2023, Wood panel, Sumi, Japanese pigment on washi (Japanese pigment) collage and painting, 100 x 200 cm. Courtesy of Galerie Atiss Dakar.
The Impact: Beyond the Walls
As the days of the fair draw to a close, its influence stretches far beyond the confines of time and space. 1-54 Marrakech is not just an event; it's a catalyst for change, pushing the boundaries of visibility for African art and challenging the global community to rethink its narratives.
Reggie Khumalo, The New Temptation, 2023, Mixed technique acrylic, fabric on canvas, 300 x 200 cm. Courtesy of Galerie 208.
Until Next Time
As we bid adieu to the colors of Marrakech and the visions of 1-54, the journey doesn't end here. The legacy of African art, with its deep roots and sprawling branches, continues to grow, inviting us all to explore, to learn, and to be inspired. So, until next time, keep the spirit of exploration alive, and remember, the world of African art is just a heartbeat away.
I welcome and encourage you to check out all the artists that have participated in this event - Link Here
