For 3 days a year London hosts the most magnificent collection of artists and art from around the African continent and its diaspora. This years 154 exhibition found home in Sommerset House being the 12th edition of the annual fair; featuring over 160 artists and 62 galleries a range of contemporary art was displayed including photography, sculpture and mixed media works representing 30 countries, solidifying their position on the international art stage. Celebrating both emerging and established artists this years exhibition overlapped with Frieze London allowing for the public to truly get the sense of art on a global scale. 

154's partnership with artsy allowed for the collection to not only be enjoyed at the physical level but also opened a digital world for the online community to be able to access the pieces through curated selections, including an open market for the work to be purchased. Walking through the fair one couldn't miss the open conversations that were being held by the community it grew, a major and vital aspect of all the 154 fairs . Since its creation 154 has been a crucial space for the promotion of African art bridging the gap between collectors, curators and audience, this year notable names such as Aboulaye Konaté and Zak Ové graced the 154 walls. An immersive experience was delivered offering lessons on the history of the African continent as well as insight into modern contemporary issues. The art was complimented by panel discussions by artists allowing for participants to be able to engage directly with those who create, discussing ideas of identity, heritage and migration as well as the evolving position African art holds in the global scale. Conversations about art in the global market are some which have become more relevant than ever, this years fair showed this growing energy and how it transcends monetary evolution i.e., the growing worth of African art in terms of cash, but rather showcased the growing respect the international art community has for African art through the lens of a post colonial time. 

154 London's, 2024 exhibition was nothing short of brilliant, Àṣẹ looks forward to seeing what's in store for the artists in the years to come. 

Sesse Elangwe's work is an editors favourite for his ability to balance the bright and dark of colour creating a smooth final result where no shade finds itself out of place. The rising artist from Cameroon explored ideas of cultural heritage and identity often referencing the people and culture of his community. Looking at themes on the intersectionality between individual and collective identity Elangwe uses art to promote narrative. 

Alfred Thoba's narrative driven work was not missed at this years 154. His collection of displayed works included his 1951 piece 'Virgin with a Lover Boy' reflecting on his painting style exploring ideas of sexuality, love and societal norms. The idea of innocence is contrasted with that of experience, a theme seen in Thoba's other works in his depictions of the moral and complex issues with the South African society of his times. 

 Kwame Sousa, is an emerging talent from Sao Tome and the founder of the first Independent art school in the country. His piece 'African Dream' was a presentation of layered markings using bright and bold colour complimented with two central figures in seemingly athletic clothes, a possible ode to the dreams of many young men on the continent.