The Dakar Biennale has evolved this year, drawing a vibrant crowd of young people who are redefining the art landscape in Senegal.
Dakar Biennale Attracts Youth: A New Era for Art in Senegal
Dakar Biennale Attracts Youth: A New Era for Art in Senegal
The art exhibition opens its doors to a younger audience, transforming perceptions of contemporary art.
In the heart of Senegal’s capital, young artists, students, and social media enthusiasts are flocking to the Dakar Biennale, marking a significant shift from previous editions that catered primarily to affluent collectors and established art fans. This year, driven by the inclusive policies of Senegal's new president, the event has burst into the limelight as a hotspot for the youth, capturing the attention of teenagers and young adults eager to explore contemporary art for the first time.
The Old Courthouse, the biennale's main venue, has transformed into a hive of activity as groups of enthusiastic young people come together to enjoy the free access to art. Dressed in a mix of casual and traditional attire, these visitors embrace the vibrant atmosphere, using their smartphones to capture moments beneath striking installations like "Cotton Blues," created by Laeila Adjovi.
Seventeen-year-old Sokna Mbene Thiam, alongside her classmates, expressed her excitement: “It’s fun, it’s free, it’s beautiful and it’s so Instagrammable.” For many, this experience is part of a newfound exploration of contemporary art, which they find both accessible and engaging.
As the Dakar Biennale continues to evolve, it is reshaping cultural norms and expanding its audience in unexpected ways, making art an integral part of young Senegalese life.
The Old Courthouse, the biennale's main venue, has transformed into a hive of activity as groups of enthusiastic young people come together to enjoy the free access to art. Dressed in a mix of casual and traditional attire, these visitors embrace the vibrant atmosphere, using their smartphones to capture moments beneath striking installations like "Cotton Blues," created by Laeila Adjovi.
Seventeen-year-old Sokna Mbene Thiam, alongside her classmates, expressed her excitement: “It’s fun, it’s free, it’s beautiful and it’s so Instagrammable.” For many, this experience is part of a newfound exploration of contemporary art, which they find both accessible and engaging.
As the Dakar Biennale continues to evolve, it is reshaping cultural norms and expanding its audience in unexpected ways, making art an integral part of young Senegalese life.
