+234 Art Fair 2025 sets the stage for a New Patronage Era

The Nigerian art scene continues to gain momentum as one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural hubs, and the upcoming +234 Art Fair 2025 is set to underscore this status. Scheduled to take place from March 27 to March 31 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, this year’s edition carries the theme Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art. Industry professionals, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike can expect a multi-layered experience that not only showcases talent but also fosters meaningful connections between artists and patrons.

A Platform for Patronage and Artistic Growth

At the heart of the 2025 fair is an emphasis on patronage—the crucial role of collectors, institutions, and enthusiasts in sustaining artistic practice. The fair’s organizers aim to bridge gaps between emerging artists and benefactors, providing an immersive space where talent meets opportunity. With over 10,000 visitors expected, the event presents a unique opportunity for both seasoned and new collectors to engage with Nigeria’s burgeoning art market.

One of the standout elements of this year’s edition is the Tree of Patronage, an installation at the entrance that symbolizes the interconnected nature of the Nigerian art ecosystem. This thought-provoking sculpture serves as an introduction to the fair’s overarching theme, highlighting how patronage has shaped artistic careers and contributed to the evolution of contemporary Nigerian art.

Diverse Art Showcases: Painting, Sculpture, Digital Art, and More

+234 Art Fair 2025 promises a comprehensive showcase of artistic mediums, with dedicated pavilions for 2D art, 3D art, digital art, and photography. The 2D Art Pavilion, last year featuring 137 artists and 675 artworks, will continue to spotlight emerging talent across painting and illustration. Meanwhile, the 3D Art Pavilion will house an impressive collection of sculpture, woodwork, ceramics, metalwork, and textile art.

In recognition of the growing digital art movement, the fair’s Digital Art Pavilion will present works spanning computer-generated visual media and digital installations. A key highlight this year is the collaboration with Lagos Photo Festival and The Republic Magazine, integrating photography, illustration, and photojournalism to add a new depth to visual storytelling.

VIP Experiences and Exclusive Collector Spaces

Beyond the public exhibitions, +234 Art Fair 2025 will offer exclusive experiences tailored for high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and serious collectors. The VIP Party on March 26, designed for 500 select guests, will provide a high-end networking space where patrons, industry leaders, and art enthusiasts can engage in dialogue about the future of Nigerian art.

A central feature of the fair is the Patron’s Lounge, a curated space designed to resemble a collector’s private sanctuary. Here, a prominent Nigerian patron’s personal collection will be on display, offering attendees insight into the motivations and stories behind art acquisitions. Similarly, the VIP Lounge will cater to corporate collectors, showcasing works from corporate collections alongside a special documentary on the significance of institutional patronage.

Masterclasses, Panels, and Workshops

This year’s programming goes beyond exhibitions to include thought-provoking discussions on key industry topics. Panels will address issues such as government support for national collections, the role of patronage in public art, and the intersection of art and commerce. Sessions such as Art as an Asset: The Essential Guide to Cataloging, Auditing, Valuing, and Insuring Your Collection will cater to collectors and also there will be discussions on supporting emerging digital artists and NFT creators. There will also be workshops and activities for children.

For collectors, curators, and industry stakeholders, the 2025 edition presents a prime opportunity to discover fresh talent, engage in meaningful discourse, and contribute to the sustainability of Nigeria’s art sector. Whether as a buyer, a patron, or a business leader, participation in +234 Art Fair 2025 signifies a commitment to the future of African art.