Why everyone will be flying to Lagos for art in 2026

Lagos has been named among the top seven art destinations in the world to visit in 2026, according to a new report by Artsy, a leading global online art marketplace.

The recognition was contained in an article titled “7 Art Destinations to Visit in 2026” published on Artsy.net on January 8, 2026, and written by art writer Maxwell Rabb. The report described Lagos as “a banner biennale in West Africa’s preeminent art capital.”

According to Artsy, the selected destinations are Venice, Italy; Doha, Qatar; Sydney, Australia; Bangkok, Thailand; Lagos, Nigeria; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Malta, noting that the cities represent marquee art events and rapidly rising creative scenes worth adding to an art-inspired travel itinerary in 2026.

The platform stated that “Lagos is rapidly becoming the commercial and creative engine of African contemporary art, and this momentum will continue in 2026,” attributing the city’s growing influence to its vibrant and fast-evolving arts ecosystem.

Highlighting major cultural events, Artsy noted that the fifth edition of the Lagos Biennial will run from October 17 to December 18, 2026. The main exhibition, curated by Folakunle Oshun, will explore the theme “The Museum of Things Unseen,” focusing on ancestry and cultural history through the lens of museology while utilising non-traditional sites across the city.

The report also revealed that the Àkéte Collection – Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is set to officially open its permanent home in Lagos in October, with the goal of becoming a “living archive” for African art and history.

In addition, the 11th edition of the ART X Lagos art fair will take place from November 5 to 8, 2026. Speaking to Artsy, the fair’s founder, Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, said the initiative was created to bring global attention to Nigerian artists without forcing them to leave the country.

Artsy further cited the role of prominent galleries such as Nike Art Gallery, Rele Gallery, kó Gallery and Ogirikan Art Gallery, as well as institutions like the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, in sustaining Lagos’ creative momentum throughout the year.

Reacting to the report, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the recognition as a reflection of his administration’s commitment to developing the creative and tourism sectors.

“We will continue to invest in the creative sector where our youths have shown remarkable talents. Our vision is to make Lagos the number one destination for arts, culture and tourism in the coming years,” the governor said.

The listing further cements Lagos’ growing reputation as a global cultural hub and a leading destination for contemporary African art.