Leading ladies: women gallerists at 1-54

Julie Taylor 

Guns & Rain

“1-54 is a bold and pioneering art fair that is the first and only fair in the world solely devoted to African (and African diasporic) contemporary art. It now has a decade of experience under its belt and, as a gallery based on the continent and working with artists based in 6 African countries, we are delighted to be returning for the fourth time.

“We will be presenting the work of the Zimbabwean surrealist painter Raymond Fuyana. Fuyana is a first-timer at 1-54, and this is his first time exhibiting in London. As a deaf person, Fuyana’s rich use of visual symbolism connects technology, place, fantasy and dreams; he expresses his experience in a world that takes sound for granted. Fuyana links interior home-like spaces with iconic landmarks around the world, such as the Statue of Liberty, Great Zimbabwe and the canals of Venice. The duality between interior and exterior worlds which recurs in his paintings can be seen as a metaphor for his own continuous negotiations of isolation, independence and interhuman connections.”

Wunika Mukan

Wunika Mukan Gallery 

“This presentation marks our gallery’s inaugural participation at 1-54 London, a significant milestone for us. Joining esteemed African and diaspora galleries, and becoming a part of the 1-54 family, is an immense honour. We have closely observed and admired the fair’s growth since its inception, and its increasing influence on the global art scene. We are proud to be part of this platform, which propels galleries and their artists onto the international stage.”

Marie Gomis

Galerie Gomis 

“I’m thrilled to join 1-54 London this year, presenting three remarkable photography projects by Kyle Weeks (Namibia), Togo Yeye (Togo), and Mar+Vin (Brazil). Together, we celebrate the creative vision of the African diaspora, shaping the global future of art and culture. The exceptional calibre of collectors and the engaging audience never cease to inspire. Plus, I love team 1-54, always warm and making us feel welcome at Somerset House, adding to the joy of being part of the event.”

Sónia Ribeiro & Graça Rodrigues 

This Is Not A White Cube

“We’re beyond thrilled to be a part of 1-54 London this year, and we couldn’t be more proud to introduce three remarkable artists to the world stage. René Tavares is also debuting his first solo show at The Africa Centre in London. He joins the fresh voices of Nicole Rafiki and Pedro Pires in a testament to the vibrant, evolving art scene that 1-54 represents. Their unique perspectives and talent promise to ignite conversations and inspire new horizons in the world of contemporary art.”

Imme Dattenberg-Doyle & Sofia Carreira-Wham

Doyle Wham 

“We are excited to be participating in 1-54 London with a solo presentation of vintage silver gelatin photographs by Angèle Etoundi Essamba (b. 1962, Douala, Cameroon). Essamba is a pioneering artist who has inspired generations of female artists and whose work is receiving global recognition, most recently joining the permanent collection of MoMA in New York.

“As a female-founded gallery, it is particularly meaningful to take part in a female-founded fair, presenting a groundbreaking female artist. In addition, our programme is dedicated to contemporary African photography so we’re delighted to see the strong emphasis on the medium in this edition of 1-54, both in terms of exhibitors and public programming.”