Moroccan art takes center stage at 1-54 Fair in London

The 12th edition of the «1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair» opened in London on Thursday, showcasing a strong Moroccan presence. This prominent international event celebrates artistic creation from the African continent.

Held at the iconic Somerset House, the opening ceremony attracted a diverse audience, including artists, diplomats, lawmakers, journalists, and cultural figures.

Touria El Glaoui, the fair's founding director, announced that this year's edition is the largest yet, featuring approximately 60 galleries and 10 special projects. She emphasized the fair's role in providing essential exposure to African artists, discovering new talent, and showcasing the significant contributions of Moroccan artists.

One of the highlights is «Zoubida», a platform created by Sophia Kacimi to honor the craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans, recognized by UNESCO as «Living Human Treasures». The platform features a giant chessboard, with pieces crafted in collaboration with artisans from Fez and Rabat, reflecting its mission to merge art with traditional craftsmanship. Kacimi explained that «Zoubida» explores artisanal techniques to create unique, innovative pieces, placing artisans at the center of the creative process.

Morocco is represented at the fair by three galleries: «L'Atelier 21», «House of Beau», and «Loft Art Gallery». L'Atelier 21 is showcasing works by M'barek Bouhchichi (Morocco), Margaux Derhy (Morocco), Hako Hankson (Cameroon), and Derrick Ofosu Boateng (Ghana), highlighting the rich, contemporary creativity of African figuration.

Loft Art Gallery is presenting a group show featuring Amina Agueznay (Morocco), Mous Lamrabat (Morocco), Joana Choumali (Ivory Coast), and Alia Ali (Yemen/Bosnia), showcasing the continent's artistic resurgence. House of Beau is hosting «Révélations», a group exhibition spotlighting three Moroccan artists: Ziyad El Mansouri, Kamil Bouzoubaa-Grivel, and Abderrahim Trifis.

With editions in London, Marrakech, New York, and Paris, «1-54» is considered a leading international platform for contemporary African art, fostering dialogue and promoting the vibrant art scene across Africa and its diaspora.