AKAA - Also Known As Africa 2024

We are thrilled to announce AKKA Project’s continued participation in the 9th edition of AKAA – Also Known As Africa – Art Fair, taking place at the Carreau du Temple in Paris from October 18 to 20, 2024. This year’s fair highlights the rich cultural exchanges between Africa, the Americas, and the Caribbean, with a special focus on the ultramarine art scene. We are proud to be part of this prestigious event, which celebrates the evolving conversations around contemporary African art.

At the core of AKKA Project’s participation is our Artist Residency Program in Venice, a key element of our mission to support and nurture emerging and mid-career artists from the African continent. Through this residency, we provide artists with the time, space, and resources to explore new creative directions and offer them a platform to showcase their work on the international stage.

We are excited to present the works by our resident artists, directly from our Venetian program. Our booth will feature a carefully curated selection of artworks that reflect the diversity and innovation of our artists, blending various media, techniques, and perspectives. By exhibiting these works, we continue our commitment to amplifying the voices of African creatives on the global stage and fostering sustainable opportunities for their growth and exposure.

Our selected artists:

Option Dzikamai Nyahunzvi, 2023 Artist in Residence, who participated in the "Africa 1:1" exhibition in collaboration with Ca' Pesaro in Venice. His work was acquired for the museum’s permanent collection, marking a significant milestone in his career;

Osaru Obaseki, one of our 2024 Artists in Residence, collaborated with Fondazione Berengo in Murano, where she had the opportunity to cast her sculptures in glass. This unique experience culminated in her participation in the renowned "Glasstress 8 1/2" show, alongside internationally acclaimed artists;

Leila Rose Fanner, also a 2024 Artist in Residence, draws inspiration from the lush gardens of Venice, as captured by the photographer Marco Valmarana. Thanks to her access to these hidden and lesser-known spaces, as described in The Gardens of Venice by Toto Bergamo Rossi and Marco Bay, Leila has brought these secret oases to life through her evocative paintings;

Allan Kioko, an emerging talent from Kenya who challenges traditional narratives with his bold and innovative work. Inspired by the Mangbetu people of the Congo, Allan offers fresh perspectives on African identity and contemporary issues, positioning himself as a rising voice in the art world.

Join us to experience the unique creations of these remarkable artists, and witness the continuous evolution of contemporary African art!