Starting today, René Tavares and Pedro Pires will showcase their works at the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair in London, which will be on display until October 15th. WAAU has previously collaborated with both artists and continues to follow their journey.

René Tavares is a Senegal-based artist known for his intricate paintings and drawings, which oscillate between historical and contemporary references. His work often reflects his personal experience of navigating post-colonial contact zones. Tavares’ recurring theme is “l’imagerie comun,” where ordinary objects or forms are juxtaposed in abstract spaces, blurring the lines between drawing and painting techniques. His work has integrated a political-cultural layer, highlighting how politics interweaves with daily experiences.

Pedro Pires, born in 1978 in Angola, uses various media and techniques to create intricate interpretations of identity across cultures. His work addresses local and global concerns, focusing on dislocated national identity, migrants and refugees, and human rights. Pires’ personal experiences intersect with modern-day challenges, challenging current perceptions and encouraging future contemplation.

1-54, founded in 2013, is the leading international exposition for modern African art, showcasing galleries, artist dialogues, and panel discussions across London, New York, and Marrakech.

Source: 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.