RMB Latitudes 2026: Nigeria Focus
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In 2026, RMB Latitudes will introduce a Nigeria Focus, a dedicated platform bringing some of the most exciting contemporary Nigerian art and cultural practice to South Africa.
The Nigeria Focus at the RMB Latitudes Art Fair 2026 brings together two of Africa’s most exciting art scenes: South Africa and Nigeria. For decades, South Africa and Nigeria have both produced groundbreaking artists, shaped global conversations, and driven continental innovation. However, artists have been limited by practical challenges, from the volatility of the Naira and Rand, to high shipping and travel costs, to the lack of straightforward cross-border trade mechanisms. These issues have restricted the movement of artworks, cultural practitioners, and ideas between the two nations.
The Nigeria Focus acknowledges these barriers, but more importantly, it offers a new way forward. Instead of treating Nigeria as a “guest country”, the Focus positions it as an equal partner, a creative centre in its own right, and a vital contributor to the future of African art.
This specially curated section of the fair will bring together Nigerian artists, designers, and cultural workers across generations and disciplines. It creates a space where South African and Nigerian practices can meet, speak to each other, and spark new forms of collaboration.
At the fair, audiences will encounter installations and presentations that explore curiosity, materiality, spirituality, and the lived realities of both countries. These works reflect the complex environments artists in both nations navigate, shaped by shared histories of colonialism, migration, religion, capitalism and vibrant urban cultures.
In this way, the Nigeria Focus becomes more than an exhibition. It acts as a test case for how African countries might work together more effectively - creatively, culturally and economically. It invites us to imagine a continental art ecosystem that is better connected, more supportive, and more sustainable for artists and institutions alike.
RMB's support and deep commitment to the cultural and creative economy makes them a vital partner in this work. Their cross-border presence in both Nigeria and South Africa allows them to be bridge-builders between two of Africa’s most dynamic markets.
As part of this initiative, we’re launching an open call and inviting Nigerian artists and cultural practitioners to apply.
More information, artist announcements, and programme details will be shared in the months ahead.
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A track record of 2–5 years (or more) of professional practice, with exhibitions, residencies, or institutional recognition. For galleries, this includes a clear curatorial identity and a history of showcasing quality work
A clear artistic or organisational trajectory, for example: awards, press coverage, inclusion in collections, or participation in art fairs and biennales
A cohesive and compelling vision, marked by originality, curatorial strength, and a high standard of online presentation
Ability to provide professional images and complete, accurate artwork metadata
Transparent pricing of works
Capacity to conduct condition reports, and to package and ship artworks safely
Responsiveness to sales enquiries and collector questions
Professionalism and collaboration, including timely communication and a proactive approach to marketing and community engagement
Shared values such as integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to building an African art ecosystem rooted in excellence and access
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Artist’s contact details, including full name, preferred artist name, country of residence and practice, phone number, and email address.
A well-written artist bio and statement (300 - 500 words)
High-res and good quality artist headshot image
Evidence of exhibitions, residencies, awards, fair participation, or institutional collaborations.
Catalogue of available works including:
high- resolution images of your work
Accurate and complete metadata for each artwork (title, medium, size, year, artwork price, editioning if applicable ).
Clarity if the work is framed or unframed