Following a highly successful inaugural event, Soto Gallery, in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria Limited, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and main sponsor Craneburg Construction Company, is set to host the second edition of the +234 Art Fair. The event, themed “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,” will take place from March 27th to March 31st, 2025, at the Ecobank Pan African Center (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos, starting at 10 a.m. daily.
The fair aims to provide a crucial platform for emerging, unrepresented Nigerian artists, showcasing their talent to both local and international audiences. This year’s focus will highlight the vital role of art patrons and collectors in driving the industry’s growth and sustainability.
Mrs. Tola Akerele, Founder of +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, emphasized the importance of patronage beyond financial support. “Art thrives in environments where the practice is nurtured by a community committed to its growth,” she stated. “The 2025 edition of the +234 Art Fair aims to facilitate those essential connections. By providing a dynamic platform for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to interact, the fair will demonstrate how meaningful support can shape an artist’s journey and enhance the broader art ecosystem.”
Reflecting on the 2024 edition’s success, which saw over 10,000 visitors and 700 artworks showcased, Mrs. Akerele expressed her commitment to continuing to provide opportunities for “un-galleried” Nigerian artists.
Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, reiterated the bank’s dedication to nurturing the creative sector. “The creative industry is a vital driver of economic growth and global connectivity, and we are proud to invest in the next generation of African talent,” he said.
The 2025 fair will feature a diverse range of paintings, photography, and sculptures, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Attendees can also expect an art-centric bookstore, a children’s area, a VIP lounge, culinary offerings, and interactive workshops. Entry to the fair is free, aiming to foster cultural resonance, wealth creation, and networking opportunities.
The event is expected to attract a broad audience, including Nigerians, Africans, international residents, government officials, diplomats, and global art enthusiasts. The support of institutional patrons like Ecobank, Craneburg, and AFC, as well as others like TOOF, is crucial in amplifying the voices of emerging Nigerian artists.
The 2024 edition of the event achieved remarkable milestones, beginning with an overwhelming response of over 1,000 submissions to its open call. Throughout the ten-day duration, the fair attracted more than 10,000 visitors, averaging a substantial 900 attendees each day.
The event further solidified its impact by becoming the number one trending topic on X, formerly Twitter, demonstrating its widespread reach and engagement.
Notably, the fair showcased over 700 artworks, featuring 200 talented artists, and provided enriching educational opportunities through 12 masterclasses and workshops facilitated by 31 experienced professionals.