Frieze London, a leading contemporary art fair, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
The event, held in Regent’s Park, London, from 11 to 15 October, features an ‘Artist-to-Artist’ initiative, with eight celebrated artists suggesting artists for solo displays. The fair showcases artists from budding to iconic figures, with independent curators curating distinct sections. It attracts over 60,000 visitors annually, from art enthusiasts to the general public.
We highlight the Goodman Gallery which brings its artist, Kudzanai Chiurai, and from the Stephen Friedman Gallery the Ugandan artist, Leilah Babirye.
The Goodman Gallery, founded in Johannesburg in 1966, is a global contemporary art gallery that collaborates with influential artists who promote social transformation. Under Liza Essers’ leadership since 2008, the gallery has adapted its objectives and launched groundbreaking curatorial programs. Essers emphasizes collaboration with prominent artists from southern Africa, broader African artists, and global artists reflecting the African narrative.
Kudzanai Chiurai, born in Zimbabwe is a versatile contemporary artist with a diverse range of skills in photography, drawing, film, painting, sculpture, poetry, fashion, activism, publishing, and music. His artwork explores the political, economic, and social shifts in his homeland, Southern Africa, and his experiences with the West’s influence. Chiurai’s art often reflects the political landscape, and he stayed in South Africa after obtaining a BA in Fine Arts.
Leilah Babirye is a multidisciplinary artist, from Uganda, who uses everyday materials to create sculptures that explore identity, sexuality, and human rights. Her sculptures are crafted from discarded materials, drawing parallels with the Luganda language’s term for gay people. Babirye also creates traditional African masks and vibrant portraits of her community. Her work serves as a commentary on the challenges of being gay in Uganda and Africa.
Source: Frieze London, Goodman Gallery, and Stephen Friedman.
