RMB Latitudes 2026: Nigeria Focus

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Open Call for Nigerian Artists

Each year, RMB Latitudes Art Fair spotlights one African country through its International Focus programme: a curated initiative designed to deepen cross-continental dialogue, expand market access, and create sustained visibility for artists working across Africa.

In 2026, we turn our attention to Nigeria, one of the continent’s most dynamic and globally influential contemporary art ecosystems.

We invite Nigerian artists to apply to be part of a cross-border exhibition programme that begins in Lagos (March 2026) and culminates at RMB Latitudes Art Fair in Johannesburg (22–24 May 2026).

Selected artists will participate in:

  • A curated exhibition in Lagos

  • Presentation at RMB Latitudes Art Fair 2026

  • Exposure to leading Southern African collectors, curators, and institutions

  • Dedicated media, marketing, and market amplification across our continental network

This is an opportunity to situate your practice within a structured programme that connects West and Southern Africa through meaningful exchange and tangible market engagement.

Applications are now open.

    • 2–5+ years of professional practice with exhibitions, residencies, or institutional recognition. For galleries, a clear curatorial identity and record of quality exhibitions.

    • A cohesive and original body of work, demonstrating strong artistic vision, conceptual clarity, and high-quality presentation.  

    • Submission of high resolution images of artworks, with accurate metadata including title, medium, dimensions, year, and price. Up to 10 artworks per artist may be submitted for consideration.

    • Transparent pricing of artworks is required, with a range of works that ensure accessibility for different collectors.

    • Artists are expected to respond promptly to communication and participate in promotional activities and press engagements.

    • Artists should align with the fair’s values of integrity, inclusivity, and support for the growth of the African art ecosystem. 

    • Participant 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 (share metadata for each artwork; title, medium, size, year, artwork price, editioning if applicable)

APPLY HERE

Lagos Launch Exhibition

The Nigeria Focus programme begins with a curated exhibition hosted at Yenwa Gallery in Lagos on Thursday, 26 March 2026.

This exhibition will introduce selected artists within their local context before the programme travels to Johannesburg for RMB Latitudes Art Fair.

The Lagos leg is designed to:

  • Anchor the project within Nigeria’s own cultural ecosystem

  • Facilitate dialogue with local collectors and cultural leaders

  • Provide early visibility and engagement ahead of the Fair

Following the Lagos presentation, works will be showcased at RMB Latitudes Art Fair, connecting Nigerian practices with new audiences and collectors across Southern Africa and internationally.

Why Nigeria Focus Matters in 2026

Nigeria continues to shape global contemporary culture through its visual art, publishing, design, fashion, and music scenes. The Nigeria Focus recognises this vitality and creates a structured platform for deeper continental exchange.

For artists, the programme offers:

  • Cross-border exposure and sales 

  • Access to new collector networks

  • Institutional visibility

  • Professional presentation within a leading African art fair context

For collectors and cultural partners, Nigeria Focus offers early insight into a curated selection of contemporary Nigerian practices, presented first in Lagos and then at RMB Latitudes Art Fair.

A Proven International Focus Model

The International Focus is designed as a long-term exchange rather than a one-off presentation. In 2025, our Botswana Focus included an in-country exhibition prior to the Fair, resulting in sold-out presentations and expanded institutional relationships. Nigeria Focus builds on this model, strengthening intra-African networks while creating measurable cultural and market impact.

For Collectors & Cultural Partners

Nigeria Focus 2026 presents opportunities for engagement at multiple levels.

Collectors will have access to:

  • Early previews during the Lagos exhibition

  • Curated presentations at RMB Latitudes Art Fair

  • Dedicated live programming and networking moments

Galleries, institutions, and corporate partners are invited to explore collaborations aligned with cross-continental exchange, research, publishing, and patronage initiatives.

To discuss partnership opportunities, please contact: Boitumelo Makousu

RMB Latitudes, Latitudes Online & LCA Curator: boitumelo@latitudes.online

APPLY HERE