Taking place from Friday, 4 September to Sunday, 6 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre, this year’s fair coincides with Johannesburg’s 140th birthday, creating an even more significant moment for one of Africa’s premier contemporary art events.
Recognised as one of the continent’s leading art platforms, FNB Art Joburg continues to showcase the creativity, diversity and innovation shaping African artistic expression while strengthening Johannesburg’s position as a global cultural destination.
A Celebration of Contemporary African Creativity
Over nearly two decades, FNB Art Joburg has evolved into a major gathering for the African art community, attracting artists, galleries, collectors and cultural producers from across the continent and beyond.
The fair has established itself as more than an exhibition. It is a dynamic ecosystem where conversations around contemporary African art unfold, offering visitors opportunities to engage with works that challenge perspectives and reflect the richness and complexity of Africa’s creative landscape.
According to FNB, the longstanding partnership with the fair reflects a shared commitment to supporting creativity as a catalyst for opportunity, connection and meaningful societal change.
Johannesburg Remains at the Heart of the Fair
For Fair Director Mandla Sibeko, Johannesburg continues to provide the ideal backdrop for the event.
He describes the city as a place where ambition and possibility intersect, fuelled by artists, entrepreneurs, thinkers and communities who continuously redefine what is possible.
This energy, he says, has helped establish Johannesburg as one of Africa’s leading cultural capitals and remains central to FNB Art Joburg’s identity.
With Johannesburg celebrating its 140th anniversary in 2026, the fair once again places the city firmly at the centre of Africa’s contemporary art conversation.
Introducing ARC: A New Platform for Discovery
One of the biggest developments for the 2026 edition is the introduction of ARC, a brand-new section designed to expand how visitors experience contemporary artistic practice.
Dedicated to artists and works that challenge convention, ARC creates space for discovery, critical dialogue and experimentation while highlighting practices that reflect the immediacy and evolving concerns of contemporary African art.
Its introduction further strengthens the fair’s commitment to presenting multiple perspectives across the continent’s creative industries.
A Diverse Art Ecosystem
Alongside ARC, visitors can once again explore the fair’s established sections, each offering a distinct perspective on contemporary African art.
gallery HUB
Featuring Africa’s leading galleries, gallery HUB showcases institutionally recognised artists whose work continues to shape international conversations around contemporary art.
gallery LAB
Designed for emerging and hybrid gallery spaces, gallery LAB encourages experimentation with new approaches to exhibition-making and artistic representation.
ORG
ORG highlights non-profit organisations and artist-run initiatives that play a vital role in strengthening cultural infrastructure and supporting creative communities.
AUX
AUX presents talks, screenings and live performances that encourage deeper conversations around art, culture and contemporary society.
INK
Previously known as ETC, INK celebrates print culture through art publications, artist books, critical writing and limited-edition prints, recognising the importance of documentation and language in preserving cultural legacy.
GIF
Dedicated to photography, GIF explores one of South Africa’s most influential artistic mediums while examining both its historical significance and future possibilities.
MAX
MAX features large-scale installations that transform space, challenge audience interaction and push artistic boundaries.
Together, these sections create multiple pathways for audiences to engage with contemporary African art, regardless of their level of familiarity with the art world.
Open City Returns to Transform Johannesburg
Running alongside the fair, Open City returns from 20 August to 14 September 2026 in partnership with Brand South Africa.
The initiative extends the experience beyond the convention centre by transforming Johannesburg into a citywide cultural exhibition.
Visitors can expect experiences spanning:
- Art
- Music
- Fashion
- Design
- Food
- Live performances
Open City reinforces FNB Art Joburg’s vision of celebrating not only the fair itself but also Johannesburg’s broader creative ecosystem and cultural workers.
Looking Ahead to September
As FNB Art Joburg prepares for its 19th edition, organisers remain committed to creating an inclusive platform that supports artistic innovation, meaningful dialogue and cultural exchange.
With a new section in ARC, the return of Open City and Johannesburg marking its 140th birthday, the 2026 edition promises another important chapter in the fair’s history while continuing to position African creativity on the global stage.
FNB Art Joburg will take place from 4 to 6 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
