The Dakar Biennale — Dak’Art — has established itself as the most important contemporary art event in Africa, bringing together artists, collectors, critics and audiences from around the world. Created in 1990, this biennale turns Dakar, every two years, into the capital of African creativity. Driven by exceptional cultural energy, it offers official exhibitions as part of the “In” program — with its main venue being the former Dakar Courthouse — as well as Off programs spread throughout the city, reflecting both the richness of African visual creation and the continent’s cultural challenges.

History and origins of Dak’Art

Established by the State of Senegal in 1989, the biennale organized its first literary edition in 1990, then turned to visual arts in 1992; it has been dedicated exclusively to contemporary African art since 1996, becoming a pioneer across the continent. This specialization follows the great tradition of Pan-African cultural events such as the Festival of Negro Arts created in 1966. Its goal is to promote African talent and give Dakar global visibility on the contemporary art scene.

The Official exhibitions

The landmark venues of the Biennale include:

• Former Courthouse: the main space, transformed into a monumental gallery for each edition.
• Museum of Black Civilizations, Théodore Monod Museum and other iconic sites host exhibitions, performances, installations and unique dialogues between ancient and contemporary African art. The selection (international jury) presents each year paintings, sculptures, photos, installations and videos from the greatest artists of the moment — both established and emerging.

The “Off” of the Biennale

Alongside the “In”, the whole city moves to the rhythm of the Off:

• Hundreds of exhibitions and events in galleries, workshops, hotels, alternative venues, cafés — as well as in the streets, markets and popular neighborhoods.
• Any creator (local, diaspora, international) can participate, making the Off an immense open-air gallery that brings art to everyone and offers a unique platform for emerging artists.

A City in full creative energy

During Dak’Art, Dakar becomes a permanent festival:

• Exhibitions in every neighborhood (Plateau, Médina, Almadies, Ouakam, Ngor…)
• Concerts, performances, creative workshops, encounters between visual artists, musicians, dancers.
• Debates, conferences and civic actions create dialogue between society, politics and artistic creation. The event, very popular among Dakar’s residents, also attracts thousands of international visitors.

Importance and influence of Dak’Art

• Launchpad for African creation: many African and diaspora artists have been discovered there.
• Professional platform: galleries, curators, institutions and media come to identify trends in contemporary African art.
• Cultural symbol of Senegal: Dak’Art confirms Dakar as the artistic capital of the continent, pioneering the international promotion of African artists.

Themes and awards

Each edition follows a major theme (e.g., “Forging” in 2022), allowing exploration of new artistic and societal landscapes. Awards presented during the biennale:

• Grand Prix Léopold Sédar Senghor
• Oumar Ndao Prize (installation)
• Abdoulaye Konaté Prize (innovation) These awards increase visibility and boost the careers of the winning artists.

Anecdotes and memorable moments

• The first Dak’Art Grand Prix (1992) was awarded to Senegalese sculptor Moustapha Dimé, emblem of the founding generation.
• During every Off, an entire neighborhood (Médina or Plateau) transforms into an open-air museum, attracting the youth of Dakar, including dancers and graffiti artists.
• In the 2010s, the Biennale expanded to other Senegalese cities such as Saint-Louis or Thiès, achieving national reach.

What to do during the Dakar Biennale?

• Discover the official exhibitions in Dakar’s heritage sites.
• Explore the Off: wander through galleries, cafés, decorated streets, hotels and private villas hosting ephemeral exhibitions.
• Attend debates, performances and workshops; meet artists during openings and public discussions.
• Enjoy nightlife activities, openings, festive evenings and events.
• Enrich your visit by exploring other museums or iconic neighborhoods (Médina, Plateau, etc.).

Practical information

• Frequency: every two years (even years, May–June).
• Location: Dakar, throughout the city (with extensions to other regions).
• Duration: around one month of events.
• Access: most Off exhibitions are free; In exhibitions are usually paid.
• Tips: plan several days of visits, check the official program, travel across different neighborhoods to diversify experiences.