RMB Latitudes Art Fair 2026 Returns as an Oasis of Contemporary African Creativity

Set against the lush, historic backdrop of Shepstone Gardens, the RMB Latitudes Art Fair 2026 will return from 22–24 May 2026 for its highly anticipated fourth edition. Celebrated as one of the continent’s leading platforms for contemporary African art and its diaspora, the fair continues to redefine how audiences experience art – through connection, sustainability and meaningful cultural exchange.

Bringing together a dynamic mix of artists, galleries and cultural partners, the fair offers far more than just a traditional exhibition. It creates an immersive, thoughtfully curated environment where visitors can engage deeply with both the artworks and the stories behind them.

“At RMB Latitudes, we are committed to expanding equitable access to markets and creating meaningful opportunities for artists to connect with new audiences,” says Lucy MacGarry, Co-founder and Director of Latitudes. “Our priority is, and always has been, to put artists first – centring their voices, supporting their long-term visibility, and building pathways for sustainable practice. RMB Latitudes reimagines how the art ecosystem can work more inclusively, for artists and for the wider cultural community.”

The fair’s setting plays a central role in its appeal. Nestled within terraced gardens and heritage architecture, Shepstone Gardens offers a unique alternative to conventional art fair formats. Indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces blend seamlessly, creating an experience that is both intimate and world-class – balancing curated storytelling with museum-grade presentation.

A Spotlight on Nigeria’s Creative Energy

Continuing its commitment to cross-continental collaboration, the 2026 edition introduces a special focus on Nigeria – one of Africa’s most vibrant and influential creative hubs.

“RMB is committed to helping to build a sustainable art economy across Africa and strengthening cultural development,” says RMB’s Alison Badenhorst. “With a strong presence on the continent, we can bridge markets, drive engagement and support artists, curators, collectors and audiences to reach new local and global opportunities. Through RMB Latitudes, we aim to unlock talent and enable creativity to thrive.”

Rather than offering once-off showcases, the fair’s Focus programme emphasises long-term engagement. Previous collaborations, such as the 2025 Botswana initiative, resulted in sold-out exhibitions and meaningful new relationships between artists and collectors – highlighting the fair’s commitment to sustainable growth within Africa’s art ecosystem.

“Through the Focus programme, we build genuine relationships on the ground,” says Latitudes’ Boitumelo Makousu. “By working within each country first – meeting artists, curators and galleries in their own contexts – we create presentations that feel collaborative and sustained rather than extractive. Nigeria has a powerful creative community, and we’re excited to deepen those exchanges and bring that energy into the Fair.”

The RMB Latitudes Art Fair’s Theme for 2026: Oasis

This year’s theme, Oasis, draws inspiration from Johannesburg itself – a city that has flourished despite its unconventional origins. Marking 140 years of Johannesburg, the theme reflects on creativity as a life-giving force that thrives in unexpected places.

“The Fair embraces Johannesburg’s spirit of resilience and renewal, affirming the arts’ capacity to nourish, connect and reimagine the cultural landscape,” says Denzo Nyathi, Curator and Head of Sales. “It also draws inspiration from the gardens that host the Fair each year – a carefully tended pocket of green within an urban context.”

Visitors can expect an inspiring blend of art, culture and atmosphere – where creativity unfolds within a tranquil, garden-like setting in the heart of the city.

Plan Your Visit to the RMB Latitudes Art Fair

Art lovers, collectors and the creatively curious are invited to experience this unique celebration of African art and culture. Tickets available via Quicket.

For more information, visit the official website.

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