Contemporary African Art: London Course

Join Christie’s three-day intensive introducing contemporary art from across Africa through lively lectures, excursions and curator tours.

Contemporary African Art
London Intensive

This three-day course offers an engaging introduction to the richness and dynamism of African contemporary art from our classroom in Somerset House, alongside the 1-54 contemporary African art fair.

Through a carefully curated programme of expert-led discussions and guided visits, participants will explore the diverse histories, movements, and cultural contexts that have shaped artistic practice across the continent and its diaspora. Informed by leading voices from the art world, including 1-54 founding director Touria El Glaoui, the course will illuminate both celebrated and emerging talents, and the broader market landscape. 

Designed for collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals alike, the experience combines intellectual depth with privileged access, fostering dialogue and discovery within Somerset House and around London.
  • 15-17 October 2025
  • 10am-5pm BST
  • Somerset House, London
  • £950
Image:
OSINACHI (B. 1991)
Man in a Pool III
30 September 2021
Overview

Highlight Tours

Exclusive tour of Christie's 20/21 sale

Exclusive tour of 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair

Exclusive tour of the British Museum historical and contemporary African collections

In-Person Intensive

Course Schedule

Schedule subject to change
Day one

Lecture
Introduction to African Art: Historical Context with David Malik (SOAS)

Lecture
Introduction to Modern and Contemporary African Art: The Art of Today with David Malik (SOAS)

Keynote
Touria El Glaoui (1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair)

Experience
Exclusive tour of Christie's 20/21 exhibition
day two

Lecture
The Contemporary African Art Market with Elikem Logan

Lecture
Founding and Operating a Contemporary Gallery with Rakeb Sile (Addis Fine Art)

Experience
Walking tour of London contemporary art galleries.

Experience
Exclusive guided tour of the British Museum historical and contemporary African art with David Malik (SOAS)
day three

Lecture
Nigerian Modernism with Oliver Enwonwu

Experience
Nigerian Modernism at Tate Modern with Oliver Enwonwu

Experience
Exclusive guided tour of 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
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Study at the world's leading Auction House 

Christie’s, the world's oldest fine art auctioneer, has sold fine art, furniture, jewellery and wine since James Christie conducted the first sale in London on 5 December 1766.

Ever since, Christie’s London has continued to provide the perfect backdrop for the sales of the world’s finest collections and greatest works of art. Christie’s moved to its global headquarters at 8 King Street, St. James’s in 1823.

The gallery spaces at King Street are transformed into classrooms during our exclusive programming in London, so that students are immersed in the fast-paced environment of the auction house.
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Certification Included

All attendees will be awarded a physical certificate of completion issued by Christie's Education at the end of the programme.

Discover the London art scene


Experience the vibrant African art scene in London with visits to Christie's, museums and galleries, 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and an artist's studio.

Leading
Experts

Learn directly from international specialists. Get first-hand market, academic and institutional insights.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Experience a curriculum designed for best practices and practical relevance for today's market.

Art-Historical Context

Deepen your understanding through analysis of artistic movements, regional histories, and cultural influences.

Networking Opportunities

Build connections with art world professionals, collectors, and peers from across the globe.

Here's what our students have said:



"An excellent setting for the learning, a broad and interesting international cohort, well-chosen and industry-leading speakers, fascinating studio and gallery visits, and, of course, our excellent hosts, Chelsea and Ted - thank you!"


"The course structure, topics and lectures were expertly organised and ordered to be a wonderful introduction into the industry. I always felt that Ted and Chelsea were constantly engaged and attentive to our needs, anticipating any needs/access requirements throughout the day."

For any queries about this course please contact:

Christie's Education London
Telephone: +44 20 7839 9060
Email: education@christies.com


For more information please refer to our FAQs