The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair will take place as planned at Somerset House, unaffected by a recent fire. The venue, which reopened to the public on August 24, will host over 60 exhibitors and more than 160 artists. The fair highlights both established and emerging talent and will feature special projects focusing on Brazilian artists and cultural themes.
On August 17, a significant fire broke out on the roof of the west wing of Somerset House, necessitating the response of 125 firefighters from the London Fire Brigade. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the renowned artworks housed in the complex, including Vincent Van Gogh’s famous painting, remained unharmed. The gallery spaces utilized for the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, set to commence on October 10, were not impacted by the fire, allowing the event to proceed as planned. Somerset House reopened to the public on August 24 after a phased reopening began on August 20, allowing its community of artists and studios to return. Currently, Somerset House is featuring a fashion exhibition dedicated to designer Charles Jeffrey and hosts various cultural events, such as the “Vogue Rites: The Mighty Crown Ball”. The upcoming 1-54 art fair, now in its 12th edition, will showcase over 60 exhibitors and 160 artists with a focus on both established and emerging talents. Noteworthy artists include Mous Lamrabat and Esther Mahlangu, while special projects will feature British Nigerian artist Slawn’s outdoor installation featuring life-sized London buses. The fair will also shine a spotlight on Brazilian artists, coinciding with the Venice Biennale’s focus on Brazilian art, alongside installations that blend cultural craftsmanship with contemporary themes. Overall, the event seeks to represent the diverse landscape of global contemporary art.
Somerset House, constructed in 1776 and built on the site of a 1547 palace, is a historic cultural venue in London that hosts various artistic events throughout the year. The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair has been an essential feature of Somerset House since its inception in 2013, attracting a global audience and representing a rich array of African art and culture.
Despite the recent fire, Somerset House continues to uphold its cultural significance by hosting the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair and supporting a range of artistic initiatives. The fair’s commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists reflects its integral role in the contemporary art scene.
Original Source: www.artnews.com