The art show brings together top artists, galleries, and collectors with a focus on African talent.
The iconic La Mamounia Hotel in Marrakech is hosting the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair from January 30 to February 2. This must-see event brings together artists, galleries, collectors, and art lovers from across the globe, with a special focus on African artists.
The fair is named after Africa’s 54 countries.
This year, around 30 exhibitors from 14 countries are putting on display their artwork, with a heavy representation from Morocco.
The event is spread across two stunning venues: the luxurious La Mamounia hotel and DaDa, a cultural space near the iconic Koutoubia Mosque.
Touria El Glaoui, the founder of 1-54, says the fair is all about giving African artists more visibility.
“We want artists to have a voice and be represented by galleries,” she says. “Marrakech is the perfect place for this because it’s a meeting point for art lovers from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.”
Touria hopes visitors take away a deeper appreciation for African art. “Sometimes people feel intimidated by art shows,” she explains. “But the fair is highly engaging and accessible.”
One of the artists featured is Sara Benabdellah, a Moroccan filmmaker and photographer. She focuses on Moroccan women’s beauty and resilience. “I’m fascinated by Moroccan textiles, especially Lebssa El Fassiya, the traditional bridal gown from Fes,” she says. “It represents the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship and the strength of Moroccan women.”
Sara’s photos have struck a chord with many women. “When I started sharing my work, so many women reached out to me through Instagram to say they related to it,” she says. “Femininity can be a taboo subject in Morocco, but my work opens up those conversations.”
Sara also wants to challenge how Moroccan women are seen in the West. “Living in America showed me how much the West misunderstands Moroccan women,” she says. “I want to show their resilience. No matter what they go through, they always emerge strong.”
This 1-54 takes place three times a year, and Marrakech holds the only edition on African soil—the others take place in New York and London.
With its stunning location, the 1-54 Art Fair is a must-see for anyone passionate about art. As Touria puts it, “We’re just beginning to scratch the surface of what contemporary African art has to offer.”
