Abidjan is fast emerging as a vibrant cultural hotspot, with its annual art week spotlighting the city’s growing creative energy. Since launching in 2022, the festival has expanded across diverse locations, including working-class neighborhoods, blending contemporary exhibitions with community engagement. The organizers say their decision to welcome diverse audiences is intended to dismantle the idea that art belongs only to the elite. During the event, galleries and museums stayed open late. Long overshadowed by Dakar in West Africa’s visual arts conversation, Abidjan is now positioning itself as a leading West African art hub. With rising local collectors, international artists, and initiatives like graffiti festivals reshaping perceptions, Abidjan is proving that creativity here is not only thriving but increasingly accessible to all.
The Guardian
