Art X Lagos: Bridging Nigerian Business Excellence and Cultural Creativity

Lagos—the bustling hub of Nigeria’s economy—has become the epicenter of Africa’s cultural and business integration, thanks to the transformative influence of Art X Lagos. This annual art fair has cemented its place as a must-attend event for artists, collectors, and entrepreneurs across not just the continent but the world. On a November evening in 2025, the event was alive with creative energy on the grounds of the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, bringing individuals from diverse industries together in one vibrant arena. The brainchild of Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, this platform has redefined Nigeria’s identity on the global art stage.

The Visionary Genesis of Art X Lagos

Art X Lagos was envisioned to address a gap in Africa’s art ecosystem. Founded by Peterside-Schwebig, the event defied conventional expectations, focusing on creating a broader cultural dialogue while showcasing African talent. In its debut year, Peterside, armed with an MBA from INSEAD, sought support from Access Bank and its then-CEO Herbert Wigwe. Her pitch was compelling: this was not merely another art fair of champagne-sipping collectors; it would represent Africa authentically on the global stage with a multidisciplinary flair, including music, design, and community engagement. This unique value proposition worked, and Wigwe led Access Bank to become its earliest benefactor, propelling what was once an ambitious idea into a cultural phenomenon.

Tickets to the opening event in 2025 witnessed a cross-section of affluent African CEOs mingling with gallery owners and celebrated filmmakers. Despite changes in sponsorship over the years, the event’s ethos of highlighting the intersection of culture and commerce has remained steadfast. What started as a platform with free tickets has evolved into one of the continent’s most exclusive art initiatives, positioning Nigerian art alongside the likes of Art Basel and Frieze—albeit with its unique focus on Africa’s vibrancy.

The Platform for Emerging and Established African Galleries

One of the most notable contributions of Art X Lagos is its inclusive and nurturing structure for galleries and young artists. Tokini’s focus was on curating quality over quantity. Galleries like Uganda’s Afriart Gallery and Douala-based Galerie MAM have found immense value in returning to Lagos year after year. Directors from these galleries highlight a growing appetite for African art, with even younger generations becoming active in the collectors’ market. Galerie MAM, for instance, reported high returns, selling pieces valued at nearly $40,000 despite economic challenges such as fluctuating currency exchange rates.

Art X Lagos also provides a cost-effective alternative compared to exhibiting in Western hubs like London or Paris, where logistics and exhibition costs can run up to four times higher. The fair’s strategic location not only promotes accessibility but also reinforces its role as a central node in Africa’s growing art industry. This affordability makes it easier for African artists to garner exposure without compromising on global standards or reaching international buyers.

The Global Impact and Cultural Legacy of Art X Lagos

Art X Lagos has positioned itself as more than a commercial success—it is a cultural movement. The fair has embraced a global audience, with participants from over 170 countries engaging in its physical and virtual editions. Visitors are exposed to a rich diversity of creatives, with more than 500 African artists showcased since its inception. Institutions like Ghana’s Gallery 1957 have experienced sales to a diverse demographic base, from African-American to Latin collectors, emphasizing the universal appeal of African artistry.

Moreover, the fair’s most striking achievements lie beyond economic metrics. Tokini celebrates its impact in fostering an ecosystem of cooperation between artists, galleries, and international buyers. Each edition of Art X reveals the tremendous potential in African artistry—where works like Victor Butler’s “Searching Scriptures” sell for upwards of $90,000, leaving a lasting imprint of Africa’s creative ingenuity. While numbers tell part of the story, it’s the cultural dialogue and newfound recognition for African art on the global stage that truly stand out.

Art X Lagos has become a cornerstone in both Nigeria’s cultural and business identity. As it continues to evolve, the event underscores what is achievable when innovation meets passion, opening pathways for Africa’s art industry to flourish. This fusion of entrepreneurship and artistic expression ensures that African culture not only survives but thrives on the global stage.