From So Paulo To Maputo: Artistic Dialogues Across The Atlantic At 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair

The 12th edition of 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair will feature a special spotlight on the interconnected artistic narratives of contemporary Afro-Latin artists and African artists within the framework of the global contemporary art scene, showcasing the significant influence of African heritage in Brazilian culture and the broader Latin American region. With Brazils deep-rooted Afro-Brazilian history, the country has long been a focal point for examining the global African diaspora, and this years fair will highlight how contemporary Brazilian artists are reinterpreting and celebrating their African ancestry through their work.

At 1-54 London, galleries representing Brazilian artists will offer a diverse array of artistic voices, each of whom uniquely connects to the African experience through themes such as identity, migration, and cultural memory. By shining a light on the works of these artists, the fair will draw attention to Brazils ongoing engagement with its Afro-Brazilian roots, making visible the often-overlooked connections between Africa and Latin America.

The Brazilian artists showcased at this years edition include prominent figures whose work resonates with the fairs larger mission of celebrating African heritage through contemporary art. Their works span multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installation, each reflecting the profound influence of Africas cultural and historical presence in Brazil. Through their art, they engage with Brazils colonial past and the survival of African traditions that have been carried forward through generations, offering insight into the enduring legacy of African influence in modern Brazilian society.

Among the artists featured, Matheus Marques Abu and Ndia Taquary stand out for their evocative interpretations of Afro-Brazilian identity.

Abu, an emerging artist known for his immersive installations, will present works that explore the spiritual connections between Brazil and Africa, particularly through the lens of Afro-Brazilian religious practices such as Candombl. His art reflects a deep reverence for African ancestral traditions, merging symbolism and contemporary mediums to evoke a sense of continuity between the past and present.