Lagos has been named one of the seven art destinations to visit in 2026 by Artsy, a leading global online art marketplace.
The city was described as “a banner biennale in West Africa’s preeminent art capital.” According to an article titled “7 Art Destinations to Visit in 2026,” published on the Artsy website on January 8 and written by Maxwell Rabb, Lagos is among “seven spots—from marquee art events to rising scenes—that are worth adding to an art-inspired travel itinerary in 2026.”
The seven destinations selected by Artsy are Venice, Italy; Doha, Qatar; Sydney, Australia; Bangkok, Thailand; Lagos, Nigeria; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Malta.
Artsy noted that “Lagos is rapidly becoming the commercial and creative engine of African contemporary art,” adding that the city’s growing influence is expected to continue through 2026. The platform attributed Lagos’ inclusion to a fast-evolving arts ecosystem that sustains creative momentum throughout the year.
Explaining its choice, the article highlighted the fifth edition of the Lagos Biennial, scheduled to hold from October 17 to December 18. The main exhibition, curated by Folakunle Oshun, was praised for its thematic urgency and use of non-traditional exhibition spaces that reflect the city’s density and political energy. The 2026 theme, “The Museum of Things Unseen,” explores ancestry and cultural history through the lens of museology.
The article also noted that the Àkéte Collection – Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is expected to officially open its permanent home in Lagos in October, positioning itself as a “living archive” for African art. In addition, the 11th edition of the ART X Lagos art fair will take place from November 5 to 8.
Quoting the fair’s founder, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Artsy recalled her remarks from December 2025: “Many of the young artists in Nigeria believed they had to leave the country to establish themselves globally. I wanted to change that. I wanted to bring the world to us.”
The article further highlighted the role of galleries such as Rele, kó, Ogirikan Art Gallery and Nike Art Gallery in shaping contemporary African discourse, while institutions like the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History were noted for grounding new artistic work in deeper historical narratives.
Reacting to the report, which referenced the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Arts and Culture, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the recognition reflects the state government’s commitment to developing the creative sector.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s vision to position Lagos as a leading global destination for arts, culture and tourism in the coming years.
“We will continue to invest in the creative sector, where our youths have consistently demonstrated remarkable talent,” Sanwo-Olu said.
