Africa at the Center: Bold Voices from the Continent Take the Spotlight at The Armory Show 2025
- Art Report Africa
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
The Armory Show opens this weekend at the Javits Center in New York (Crystal Palace Entrance, 429 11th Avenue) with a VIP Preview on Thursday, September 4, followed by public days Friday, September 5, 11 am–7 pm; Saturday, September 6, 11 am–7 pm; and Sunday, September 7, 11 am–6 pm.
This year’s edition, which hosts over 200 galleries—including approximately 230 confirmed exhibitors—is curated under the innovative leadership of Kyla McMillan and marks the fair’s first full-scale outing under Frieze. New additions include a dedicated design sector, a Platform sculpture section led by Souls Grown Deep focusing on artists from the American South, and a Function design sector curated by Ebony L. Haynes. The fair aims to deepen dialogue between American and international artists while expanding access to collectors.
African galleries are particularly visible this year:
Southern Guild (Cape Town) returns to New York, showcasing a striking lineup that includes lightbox pieces by Zanele Muholi, ceramic totems from Zizipho Poswa, and works by Manyaku Mashilo, Kamyar Bineshtarigh, and Oluseye. SA Decor & Designartmarketmag.com
Kó Art Space (Lagos) presents a solo feature by Victoria‑Idongesit Udondian, debuting her series After the Last Supper at Booth P47.
Retro Africa (Lagos) presents a group presentation, showcasing Victor Ehikhamenor, Christopher Samuel Idowu & Leonard Pongo
Their presence underscores a dynamic shift: African art is no longer peripheral—it’s asserting its centrality on New York’s global stage. The narratives they bring—spanning identity, lineage, and innovation—expand the cultural geography of the fair.
Whether you’re exploring established voices or discovering new expressions, this year’s Armory Show promises to spotlight Africa’s creative power like never before.
Dates: VIP Preview – Thursday, September 4 (invite only); Public – Fri–Sat: 11 am–7 pm; Sun: 11 am–6 pm
Location: Javits Center, Crystal Palace Entrance, 429 11th Avenue, New York
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