Nataal is media partner for ART X Lagos 2018 this November. Here’s the low-down on what’s in store
ART X Lagos returns for its third edition from 2 to 4 November at The Civic Centre in Victoria Island. Like last year, Nataal is one of the art fair’s media partners and will be creating special stories in and around the event. As West Africa’s leading art fair, 2018 sees ART X Lagos expand its ambitious showcase of the most innovative artists from across the continent and its diaspora with its interesting mix of participating galleries, special projects, talks and events. As such, expect to see works by both world-renowned and emerging names including Yinka Shonibare MBE, Zanele Muholi, Joy Labinjo, Amadou Sonogo, Na Chainkua Reindorf, Paul Onditi, Patrick Taygoe-Turkson, Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum, Nike Okundaye and Cyrus Kabiru.
“We are validated in our decision to develop this vital platform for the growth and increased visibility of African artists and galleries,” says Tokini Peterside, ART X Lagos founder and director. “We look forward to welcoming a vast and varied, local and international audience as we seek to reinforce Lagos’ position as an emergent cultural capital on our continent.”
Here is what to look forward to, at a glance:
Galleries x 18
This year the advisory board, led by N'Goné Fall and Femi Lijadu, has selected 18 galleries from around the world. These include Lagos names such as Nike Art Gallery, SMO Contemporary Art and Art House – The Space, as well as neighbouring galleries including Gallery 1957 and Nubuke Foundation from Accra. South Africa’s Stevenson Gallery returns for its second year at ART X Lagos alongside Cape Town space SMAC. East Africa will represent for the first time in the shape of Kenya’s Circle Art Gallery, Uganda’s Afriart and Ethiopia’s Addis Fine Art. And galleries from Europe include London’s Tiwani Contemporary and Taffeta and Out of Africa Gallery from Barcelona.
Inspirational talks
Curated by cultural producer Missla Libsekal, the talks programme promises fascinating and highly engaging discussions that dissect the state and evolution of the contemporary art market in Africa. The keynote will be from none other than Yinka Shonibare MBE, who will reveal some insights into his long and accomplished career. The artist is also honoured with a retrospective of his work at the fair.
Interactive projects
Masterminded as always by A Whitespace Creative Agency, ART X Lagos’ experiential platform invites visitors to explore ideas influenced by the vibrant and exhilarating essence of the fair’s host city. Highlights include Mad Horse City, a virtual reality installation created by Olalekan Jeyifous and Wale Lawal picturing a futuristic view of Lagos circa 2115, and Lagos Drawings by Karo Akpokiere, an installation bridging digital technology, perceptible sounds and visual illustrations.
New talent
The fair’s annual ART X Prize with Access seeks to reward the efforts of emerging talents who have demonstrated a commitment to careers as professional visual artists. This year’s winner is Bolatito Aderemi-Ibitola, who will receive 1million naira and enjoy a solo presentation of her project, Scraps from Mama’s Floor, at the fair.
Music and vibes
This is a fair that always knows how to party. This year’s ART X Live is curated by Lanre Masa alongside Odunsi the Engine as creative director, who take as their theme a celebration of Africa’s rich musical history and legends whose influence is felt on today’s rising stars. On the stage will be alternative performers Teni the Entertainer, Amaarae and BOJ to name a few.
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Published on 25/09/2018