AKAA (Also Known As Africa) is an art and design fair dedicated to contemporary African and Afro-diasporic creation. Here is a summary of the event’s ten-year history.
The exhibition brings together galleries, artists, collectors and institutions from around the world. It highlights the diversity of artistic practices, including painting, sculpture, photography and design.
Art from the cradle of humanity’s
Once scorned, today the art world is turning its attention to Africa. Sitor Senghor is the artistic director for this anniversary edition, with a vision focused on materials such as pigments, textiles, ceramics and enamel. At the entrance, visitors will discover the monumental installation ‘Wafrica’ by artist Serge Mouangue, a fusion of African and Japanese traditions, which is at the heart of the fair.
More than 40 galleries are participating and over 100 artists from some 20 countries are present. Since its creation in 2016 by Victoria Mann, AKAA has established itself as a bridge between African artists, collectors and institutions. The tenth edition aims to promote both cultural beauty and economic viability, reconciling artistic vision and commercial transactions. Through this milestone, the fair is strengthening its place in the global art market while promoting memory, materials and innovation.
An international committee for an unmissable experience
The exhibition is supported by an international committee to ensure a rich and diverse artistic selection that is representative of contemporary scenes in Africa and its diasporas. This plurality of perspectives enhances the quality and credibility of its programming. Thanks to this expertise, AKAA offers visitors an unmissable experience, combining artistic discoveries, encounters and cultural immersion. The exhibition stands out for its openness to the world and the power of the works on display. It has thus established itself as an essential event in the contemporary art landscape. AKAA guarantees authentic diversity and high quality. It has become an unmissable experience because it offers an essential, innovative and lively perspective on the African and diasporic art scenes.
Our opinion on the AKAA exhibition
Through this selection of works, the fair invites us to discover a vibrant, innovative and committed scene. Through this exhibition, Le Carreau du Temple is committed to opening our minds to a new form of art. Three days filled with emotion that we highly recommend. AKAA has become a major event promoting contemporary narratives from the African continent. AKAA affirms a committed identity, celebrating African art as a ‘creative impulse’ rather than nostalgia.
The exhibition: Carreau du Temple (3rd arrondissement of Paris)
The event takes place over three days each year.
Prices: from €16, concessions €11.
Address: 4 rue Eugène Spuller, 75003 Paris
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