October Contemporary Art Season, 2024
As the art world gears up for Frieze London 2024, this post explores the upcoming events and exhibitions showcasing contemporary art during London's vibrant October art season.
Frieze London & Frieze Masters, 2024
As Frieze London 2024 approaches, the art world's attention will again return to the movement of contemporary art in the UK capital.
This year's event, which will take place from Weds 09 (VIP preview day) through 13 October at The Regent’s Park, promises a wealth of contemporary art showcases for its, audience of enthusiasts, collectors, professionals, passersby and the occasional high-profile celebrity. Celebrating 21 years of galvanising London’s art ecosystem, a particularly unique opportunity to explore the fair will be Frieze London 2024: Artist-to-Artist.
An artist led initiative, Artist-to-Artist will return to the fair’s programme this year after is widely praised 2023 debut, and will include highlights from:
Massinissa Selmani Selected by Zineb Sedira
Rob Davis Selected by Rashid Johnson
Magda Stawarska Selected by Lubaina Himid
Peter Uka Selected by Hurvin Anderson
Appau Jnr Boakye-Yiadom Selected by Glenn Ligon
Nengi Omuku Selected by Yinka Shonibare CBE
When is Frieze London 2024?
Wednesday 09 - Sunday 13 October, 2024
The Regent’s Park, London, UK
Nengi Omuku Selected by Yinka Shonibare CBE, Frieze London 2024
A Spotlight on Modern & Contemporary art from the African Continent
Manuel Figueira (b. 1938), 'Kordá Kaoberdi'. The work will be exhibited by Perve Galleria at 1-54 London, 2024. Image courtesy of the artist and the gallery.
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Running alongside Frieze London, 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair continues to be a pivotal platform for African art. Founded by Touria El Glaoui, this specialized fair dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora offers a focused lens on the continent's artistic output. Visitors can expect to encounter works from both established and emerging artists, with booth boasting both curations of group and solo showings. Some galleries, artists and exhibitions to look out for around the fair include:
DADA Gallery. Kofi Perry, an American-Iranian painter whose Afro-futuristic artworks combine themes from hip-hop music, spirituality and the ancient world, will present a solo booth this year at the fair
Perve Galleria. The gallery will showcase the works of Cape Verdean artist, Manuel Figueira (b. 1938). Figueira’s works were particularly contested during Cape Verde’s liberation war, often capturing social upheaval and insurrection against colonialism.
Efie Gallery x Ozwald Boateng. Dubai-based Efie Gallery partner with London-based fashion designer, Ozwald Boateng, for a unique showcase of artistry. To take place at the designer’s eponymous store on Savile Row.
1-54 London 2024 dates and information
10-13 October (VIP and Press Preview, Thurs 10 Oct)
Somerset House, Strand, London. WC2R 1LA, United Kingdom
Ticket information is available on the 1-54 and Somerset House websites
Irma Stern (b. 1894), 'Pondo Smoker' (1929). An important work, unseen in public for decades, wil be on view 08-13 October at Maison Pan, London
Navigating African Art During Frieze Week: Strauss & Co's Curated Guide
South African auction house Strauss & Co, the leading African auction house, has created a comprehensive guide to help art enthusiasts navigate the African art scene during Frieze week.
This resource which can be found online and is freely available, offers insights into key artists, galleries, and events, ensuring that visitors can make the most of their Frieze experience and discover the best of African art on display. One such showcase includes Strauss’ own private selling exhibition, taking place at Maison Pan which will be led by four major works by pioneering South African modern artist, Irma Stern.
The free guide can be accessed via this link
Irma Stern: South Africa's Most Valuable Artist shows works in London during Frieze Week
Art enthusiasts should keep an eye out for Stern’s Pondo Smoker (1929), an important work, unseen in public for decades. Stern just recently achieved a sale of £960,000 ($1.284m) during Sotheby's Modern & Contemporary African Art auction in London for her work 'Lady of the Harem.’ According to Lamna, she is the most valuable South African artist, with her paintings selling for an average of R5 million, cementing her status as the best-selling artist in South Africa.