The 15th edition of Dak’Art, the Biennale of Contemporary African Art, launched in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, on Thursday, November 7. The event opened with a vibrant ceremony featuring music, dance, and storytelling, marking the start of one of Africa’s premier art exhibitions.
A key moment of the evening was the presentation of the Léopold Sédar Senghor Prize. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye awarded the honor to French-Martinican artist Agnès Brezephin for her piece Fil(s) de soi(e).
The Biennale serves as a crucial platform for artists across the continent. Malian textile artist Awa Meïté highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “It’s a vital space for exchange, visibility, and promoting African art globally. Despite the economic challenges, the Biennale is a triumph.”
This year’s theme, Xàll wi (“The Wake” in Wolof), encourages Africans to reclaim their cultural heritage while adapting to global changes. The event showcases diverse art forms, from illustration and sculpture to virtual reality and sound art. Among the highlights are displays honoring influential African figures like Thomas Sankara, Léopold Sédar Senghor, and Amílcar Cabral, which resonate strongly with visitors.
Running until December 7, the Biennale will feature works from 3,000 artists, with 58 selected for its prestigious “In” section. Cape Verde and the United States are this year’s guests of honor, further underlining the Biennale’s role in fostering international dialogue through African art.
