The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair (Instagram) has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the global art calendar, and its return to Marrakech for its sixth edition underscores the city’s growing influence in the international art world. Set against the backdrop of the opulent La Mamounia hotel, this year’s fair reaffirms Marrakech’s position as a thriving hub for contemporary African art.
With more than 30 galleries from 15 countries, including 15 from the African continent, the fair continues its mission to spotlight artists from Africa and its diaspora. The inclusion of emerging galleries at DaDa, a dynamic arts space in the city’s medina, adds a new dimension to this year’s edition, further expanding the fair’s reach and impact.
Founded in 2013 by Touria El Glaoui, 1-54 was born out of a desire to increase visibility for African artists on the global stage. The fair’s expansion to Marrakech in 2018 was a strategic move, bringing contemporary African art to a city with deep artistic roots and a rich cultural history. Over the years, the fair has not only drawn collectors and institutional figures but has also contributed to the evolution of Marrakech’s art ecosystem, prompting the opening of new galleries and fostering connections between local and international artists.
This year’s edition features a diverse roster of exhibitors, from established names like Gallery 1957 and AFIKARIS to newcomers such as Tokyo-based space Un, which is presenting its first-ever fair booth in collaboration with Galerie Atiss Dakar. The fair’s eclectic mix of mediums and themes reflects the dynamism of contemporary African art, from Aliou Diack’s expressive paintings to Amina Benbouchta’s intricate textile works crafted in partnership with Indian master embroiderers.
The fair’s impact extends beyond commercial transactions, with institutions such as Tate acquiring works from the event. Additionally, the presence of galleries like Loeve&Co, which focuses on underrepresented artists from non-Western backgrounds, highlights the shifting landscape of global art discourse.
Beyond La Mamounia, DaDa serves as an incubator for emerging talent. Highlights include the Kuwait-based Hunna Art’s presentation of Moroccan artist Maissane Alibrahimi and Egyptian artist Amina Yahia, both of whom explore feminist themes in their work. Meanwhile, Tanger Print Club offers accessible prints, ensuring that collectors of all levels can engage with the fair.
The presence of ten Morocco-based galleries further cements the country’s significance within the African art scene. Casablanca’s Loft Art Gallery, which recently expanded to Marrakech, presents an all-Moroccan lineup, emphasizing the city’s role as a bridge between local artists and an international audience.
With its thoughtfully curated programming and international scope, 1-54 Marrakech continues to push boundaries and redefine perceptions of African art. As the fair grows, so does its influence, solidifying Marrakech’s place as a key destination for contemporary art on the continent and beyond.
Notable moments from this year’s fair include talks by leading curators and artists, discussions on the evolving market for African art, and special projects that blend tradition with innovation. As the fair continues to expand its reach, it not only provides a commercial platform but also fosters meaningful cultural exchange, reinforcing the importance of Marrakech as a meeting point for artists, collectors, and institutions worldwide.
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