Manny Ita –
The third edition of the +234 Art Fair officially opened on Thursday at the Ecobank Pan‑African Centre, bringing together more than 260 emerging artists in a major showcase aimed at expanding opportunities for creators without formal gallery representation.
Organisers said the annual fair, now in its third year, continues to position itself as a platform dedicated to “un-galleried” artists—creatives who have not yet secured representation by established art galleries but are seeking broader recognition and access to collectors, curators, and international audiences.
This year’s edition is themed “Inclusivity: Widening the Frame,” a concept that organisers say reflects their commitment to broadening participation in Nigeria’s art ecosystem and encouraging diverse artistic voices.
A representative of the fair noted during the opening ceremony that the initiative was created to address structural gaps within the art market. “The +234 Art Fair was designed to create visibility for talented artists who may not yet have gallery representation but whose work deserves to be seen on a global stage,” the representative said.
The exhibition features paintings, sculptures, photography, mixed media, and digital art, highlighting the range of contemporary expressions emerging from Nigeria’s rapidly evolving creative scene. Many of the participating artists are presenting their work to international collectors and curators for the first time.
Organisers said the fair also includes panel discussions, artist talks, and mentorship opportunities designed to connect emerging talents with established figures in the industry. According to them, the programme is intended to provide both exposure and professional development for artists navigating the early stages of their careers.
“We believe inclusivity in the arts means expanding access—access to platforms, collectors, networks, and global conversations,” the organisers said. “By widening the frame, we are ensuring that more artists have a chance to participate in the cultural economy.”
The event is hosted in collaboration with Ecobank Group, whose cultural and creative initiatives across Africa have increasingly supported exhibitions and art-driven programmes aimed at promoting African creativity.
Art industry observers say the fair has quickly grown into an important meeting point for artists, collectors, curators, and enthusiasts in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, a city widely regarded as one of Africa’s most dynamic cultural hubs.
With hundreds of artworks on display and strong interest from local and international visitors, organisers expressed optimism that the 2026 edition will further strengthen the visibility of emerging Nigerian artists while reinforcing Lagos’ reputation as a growing centre for contemporary African art.
