At the crossroads of tradition and modernity, Abidjan has become a veritable cultural capital, where contemporary African art flourishes. In every alleyway, in every neighborhood, a creative breath buzzes, revealing galleries that offer a showcase for emerging talent and established artists alike. These spaces, imbued with diversity and passion, don’t just showcase works, they cultivate an immersive experience, inviting visitors to plunge into the fascinating world of artistic expression. Get ready to explore Abidjan’s art gallery, exclusive havens of creativity that reflect the effervescence and richness of the Ivorian, African and international art scene.
Amani Gallery
The Amani contemporary art gallery stands as a sanctuary dedicated to the creativity of African artists. Whether already renowned or still in the process of making their mark, each of the artists exhibited shares a passion for excellence. Painters, sculptors and ceramists bring to life works that captivate and inspire with their boldness and sensitivity.
In this vast, luminous space, the works unfold in a visual symphony. From humorous lightness to melancholy depth, the creations interweave to form a rich and fascinating dialogue. Unique pieces, often diverted from their original function, stand side by side with innovative sculptures and design objects, offering a surprising array of shapes and colors. This atypical ensemble transforms the Amani gallery into a place not to be missed, where every visit is an invitation to discovery.
Recognized as one of Abidjan’s finest art galleries, Amani stands out for its ambience conducive to strolling and marvelling. Much more than just an exhibition space, it embodies an encounter with art and the emotions it arouses. Léon N’Guetta, master of the premises and architect of this experience, personally selects the works on display. A shrewd self-taught artist, he showcases emblematic sculptures such as the colons and Aoulabas, surrounding them with contemporary forms such as large mirrors, coffee tables and majestic vases.
Galerie Amani is a showcase for the continent’s artists, offering a colorful array of sculptures and paintings testifying to their exceptional talent. Located on the corner of rue Pierre et Marie Curie and rue du Docteur Blanchard, it features works by artists such as Jean-Baptiste Djeka, Mené Ange Martial, Désiré N’Guessan, Demba Camara, Daniel Bamigbade, and Hyppolite Kabore. At Galerie Amani, every work tells a story, and every visitor can expect a journey into the artistic soul of contemporary Africa. In this unique space, art transcends its function to become a collective and individual experience, vibrant and authentic.
Location: 1 rue du docteur Blanchard
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Galerie des Arts
Established in 2022 within the Résidence des Arts, the Galerie des Arts is the fruit of the passion of Ms Emilia Franco, a dedicated painter. Her ambition? To offer young local artists an inspiring haven in which to exchange ideas, work and exhibit their work.
The gallery, located in Angré, is a must for all art lovers in Abidjan. In an exceptional setting, it presents a carefully chosen selection of works by both local and international artists. Vibrant paintings, expressive sculptures, striking photographs: every corner of the gallery is an invitation to plunge into a diverse artistic universe.
What’s more, the Galerie des Arts regularly comes alive with temporary exhibitions, festive vernissages and captivating cultural events. For anyone in search of a unique artistic experience, this must-see venue shouldn’t go unnoticed. In Abidjan, the Galerie des Arts de la Résidence des Arts awaits you, ready to awaken your senses and nurture your love of art.
Location: Angré 8 tranche
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Basquiat Art Gallery
Housed in the Villa Alfira, the Basquiat Art Gallery stands as a beacon of light for contemporary Ivorian art. Under the aegis of multi-disciplinary artist Jacobleu, this Abidjan art gallery is much more than a simple exhibition space; it embodies a place for meeting, exchange and creation, celebrating the artistic effervescence of Côte d’Ivoire.
The choice of the gallery’s eponymous name is not simply a tribute to the most highly-rated African-American artist in history, but is rooted in a deep bond with the Ivory Coast, illustrated by the friendship between Basquiat and Ouattara Watts, an eminent Ivorian painter now based in New York.
Inaugurated in May 2014, the Ivorian gallery brings together four iconic figures from the art world for its first exhibition, including architect and designer Issa Diabaté, photographer Ananias Léki Dago, and painters Aboudia and Armand Boua. Through this initiative, Jacobleu, the multi-disciplinary visual artist, aims to create an immersive space that is both accessible to the public and a catalyst for the Ivorian cultural scene.
The Basquiat Art Gallery comprises three exhibition rooms, a multi-purpose space for various cultural events, and an arty café, a veritable crossroads of ideas and initiatives. Conferences, debates, screenings and performances are held alongside art exhibitions, making every visit a unique experience. By combining the visual arts with digital technology, the gallery stands out for its innovative approach, helping to redefine artistic boundaries.
Jacobleu has also initiated a landmark event: the Rencontres internationales des arts numériques (RIANA), a first in sub-Saharan Africa, which took place in 2017 at the Institut Français de Côte d’Ivoire. What’s more, in 2020, the Basquiat Art Gallery was the venue for Abidjan’s Rencontres internationales des arts visuels et numériques, attracting talents such as sculptor and designer Issa Ouattara, artist Vanly Tiéné, and painter Yubah Sanogo, not to mention landmark works by Jacobleu himself.
What sets the Basquiat Art Gallery apart from other art galleries in Abidjan is its philosophy of openness and proximity, which desacralizes contemporary art and invites all enthusiasts to get involved. The art center embodies a bold vision of an accessible, vibrant and constantly evolving culture, where every creation, whether digital or classical, is part of the grand narrative of contemporary artistic identity.
Location: Bd des Martyrs – Villa Alfira – 2 Plateaux
Cocody – Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Bourgeois Gallery
In a space where art and comfort intertwine, it was this vision that guided Ibn Cheickh Sallah Diebkileun in establishing the Bourgeois Gallery. Eschewing the conventions of traditional galleries, this Abidjan gallery is a warm and friendly haven, offering visitors a propitious setting where each work can shine to its full potential.
La Bourgeois Gallery presents itself as an innovative gallery-bar-restaurant, dedicated to celebrating the emerging art scene in Côte d’Ivoire. It is committed to making art accessible to all by creating an environment where anyone can discover and appreciate contemporary creation without complexity or constraint.
Beyond its unique ambience, the art space also offers dynamic programming, including themed evenings such as karaoke, salsa sessions and vernissages, breathing new life into this singular artistic space.
Ibn Cheickh Sallah Diebkileun, a young up-and-coming figure on the Ivorian art scene, has conceived this festive art center as a platform for spotlighting contemporary artists. By fostering the emergence of promising talent, the gallery facilitates access to art while cultivating a relaxed atmosphere. The Bourgeois Gallery invites you to explore contemporary art in a distinctive and welcoming setting.
Location: Mall Pharmacie du Vallon Vallon
Cocody – Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Cécile Fakhoury
Cécile Fakhoury Gallery is one of the leading lights on the Côte d’Ivoire art scene, bringing contemporary African art to the world stage. With spaces also in Dakar, Senegal, and Paris, France, she is firmly committed to highlighting the artistic excellence of the African continent.
Inaugurated in 2012, this art house has been a showcase for many talented artists, hosting works as unusual as they are immersive. The gallery offers a prestigious platform for contemporary artistic creativity and diversity through a rich program of solo and group exhibitions, while also participating in international fairs and biennials. Collaborations with foreign galleries further enhance the gallery’s influence on the world stage.
The artists represented by Galerie Cécile Fakhoury reflect a passionate commitment to the vitality of the African art scene. Each creator, with his or her strong identity and personal stories, stands out in this creative panorama where plastic language transcends borders and eclipses geographical stereotypes.
Their works bear witness to a unique vision of the world, genuine reflections on their contemporary testimonies. The richness of their aesthetic gestures, oriented towards an exploration of the disparities of history, contributes to writing a living memory of their countries. Visitors are invited to revisit their connection with the world through this deeply engaging artistic approach.
Since opening in Abidjan, the gallery has expanded its horizons, inaugurating in 2018 a space in Dakar as well as a showroom in Paris. It continued its evolution in 2020 with the creation of a Projet Space in Abidjan, dedicated to forward-looking programming. In October 2021, the gallery moved into a new exhibition space in the heart of the Matignon district, establishing itself today at 104 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
Among the emerging and established artists represented by the renowned Abidjan art gallery are Souleymane Keïta (Estate), Aboudia, Mariam Abouzid Souali, Assoukrou Aké, Jess Atieno, Armand Boua, Thibaut Bouedjoro-Camus, Dalila Dalléas Bouzar, Eva Diallo, Binta Diaw, Adji Dieye, Serigne Ibrahima Dieye, Dimitri Fagbohoun, François-Xavier Gbré, Yo-Yo Gonthier, Fanny Irina, Carl-Edouard Keïta, Jems Koko Bi, Elladj Lincy Deloumeaux, Marie-Claire Messouma Manlanbien, Rachel Marsil, Vincent Michéa, Roméo Mivekannin, Cheikh Ndiaye, Sadikou Oukpedjo, Kassou Seydou, Paul Sika, Bamouin Sinzé, and Ouattara Watts.
Currently, and until December 28, 2024, the Galerie Cécile Fakhoury in Abidjan is shining with the exhibition “ Au-delà du jardin, il y a la mer ” by contemporary artist Elladj Lincy Deloumeaux. An exclusive event not to be missed, an invitation to plunge into the fertile imagination of contemporary creation.
Location: Boulevard Latrille – Rond point de la RTI and Carrefour de la Vie
Coté immeuble Carbone – Cocody – Abidjan – Côte d’Ivoire
Donwahi Foundation
In the heart of Abidjan, where the noise of the city fades in the face of creative power, stands the Fondation Donwahi. Founded in 2008 by Illa Ginette Donwahi in memory of Charles Bauza Donwahi, a pillar of Ivorian politics, this institution transcends the simple concept of art galleries to establish itself as a bastion of contemporary African art.
In this majestic ochre building, which has transformed the former family home into a vibrant showcase of creativity, visitors are invited to suspend time. The lush garden draws us into a world where art becomes a bridge between cultures, a place where the imagination is freed from constraints. Far from confining itself to a particular style, the Fondation Donwahi boasts a bold and eclectic program, featuring artists such as Jems Koko Bi and Boris Nzebo.
Here, art is seen as a vehicle for dialogue and enrichment. With an unwavering commitment to creation, the Fondation Donwahi supports local and international artists through residencies, innovative exhibitions and educational programs. As such, it has positioned itself among Abidjan’s art galleries as a veritable cultural incubator, captivating souls from all horizons.
In search of new audiences, the foundation is open to all: film screenings, Wi-Fi-equipped workspaces for students, and a culinary delight orchestrated by talented chef Julien Coulibaly in its lounge-restaurant. Every corner of this artistic oasis is designed to encourage encounters, whether you’re an art enthusiast or a mother looking for a moment of relaxation.
The Donwahi Foundation is more than a place, it is a movement. It invites us to redefine the boundaries of contemporary art, to celebrate diversity in all its forms, and to create a dialogue between cultures. By highlighting artists such as Ibrahim Ballo, Mounou Désiré Koffi, Joana Choumali, Alun Be, François Xavier Gbré, Antoine Tempé, Ishola Akpo, it proves that African art is not just a category, but a powerful voice capable of impacting the entire world.
Transformed into a crossroads of exchanges and creativity, the Donwahi Foundation positions itself as a beacon lighting the way towards a future where art, far from being a luxury, becomes an essential tool for human and social development. Discover a space where each work tells a story, and each visitor becomes an actor in a collective narrative.
Location: Bd des Martyrs – Cocody II Plateaux
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Houkami Guyzagn
Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Bonoumin, the Houkami Guyzagn Gallery, founded by Thierry Dia, defines itself as a true art and artist residency. Designed to provide a space where art can flourish freely, this gallery has been carefully designed to host works in their purest form, while giving artists the freedom to express their creativity without constraint, immersing the public in a vibrant artistic universe, where each work is perfectly highlighted.
Much more than a simple exhibition space, Houkami Guyzagn presents itself as a cultural multiplex that is both welcoming and inspiring. Its abundant programming includes exhibitions, openings, conferences, debate meetings and the now unmissable Apéros Art. The Abidjan art gallery thus establishes itself as a living space where culture and exchange take precedence, dedicating its space in particular to highlighting young Ivorian and West African talents across all artistic disciplines — painting, sculpture, photography and decorative objects. Among the emerging artists, we find names such as the talented Mathilde Moreau and Youssouf Bath, an emblematic figure of the Vohou Vohou movement of the 80s.
This bright complex, with its two floors in vibrant colors, houses two galleries, a restaurant where local specialties delight the taste buds, as well as a cozy lounge club where it is good to sip refined cocktails to the sound of tasty music. In addition, the gallery offers guest rooms, perfect for the stays of visiting artists or performances, thus contributing to creating an energetic and positive environment, reflecting the jovial character of its founder.
One of Thierry Dia’s flagship projects is the organization of the Biennale des Guyzagn, which honors the Guy Nairay Grand Prize. This visual arts competition is a wonderful initiative open to sculptors, photographers and painters, aiming to reveal new talents and support them for two years by promoting them to the public.
Thus, the Houkami Guyzagn Gallery positions itself as a pillar of the Ivorian modern art scene, highlighting artists such as HAZ-IE, Béchir Touré, Franck Asso, Emmanuel Lekryst and Galla Prince GNOHITE. With a committed vision, it opens the doors to a promising future for contemporary creation in Africa, uniting culture, talent and community.
Location: Riviera 2 – Cocody
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Kynome Gallery
In the heart of Ivory Coast, Kynome Gallerystands out as a sanctuary for the immersive exploration of contemporary art, a space where emerging talents come to flourish through exclusive exhibitions. Founded by Mr. and Mrs. Achi, passionate about African art and culture, this recently renovated gallery offers a resplendent setting, a creative fervor conducive to the emergence of bold and innovative artistic projects.
The philosophy that drives Kynome Gallery is clear, to offer a prestigious showcase to young Ivorian artists, revealing to the general public the rising stars of the local art scene. The art center is a true crossroads where captivating exhibitions and inspiring events intermingle, accompanied by workshops led by renowned artists who delight art lovers.
From the first steps in this space charged with creative energy, visitors are enveloped by an electrifying atmosphere, where immaculate walls and touches of black stand as a blank canvas, ready to welcome the most daring and provocative works.
The selection of the exhibited works is carried out with a meticulous eye, that of the owners, who, through their passionate emotions, choose committed pieces, transmitting messages of life and joy. Each work of the art gallery tells a story, each exhibition is an invitation to dive into a vibrant vision of contemporary African art, to rediscover and celebrate the richness and diversity of talents that make up this universe.
Location: Rue des Jardins Abidjan
Vallon 2 Plateaux – Cocody
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Louisimone Guirandou
A true showcase of contemporary African art, the LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery is emerging as an essential reference in the artistic landscape of Abidjan. Inaugurated in December 2015 in Cocody, near the Goethe Institut, this avant-garde Abidjan art gallery illuminates African creativity with a dynamic and innovative program. Passed down from mother to daughter, it embodies a family treasure, a space steeped in history, which now shines under the neon lights of new and emerging art internationally.
The ambitious vision of the LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery aims to democratize access to contemporary art on the continent, to support its artists and to promote their work, both in Abidjan and internationally. With particular attention paid to emerging talents, the gallery is committed to offering them new platforms for expression, propelling them into the spotlight.
More than just a gallery, this space defines itself as a large family, a warm and dynamic community of artists, partners, friends and collectors. It offers a unique creative framework, encouraging art players to explore new forms of expression and transcend creative techniques. By nurturing the creativity of its artists, the LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery forges a deep connection with the vibrant Abidjan megacity, exhibiting innovative works by local artists and other horizons of the continent on the world stage.
The art house, seductive by its commitment and its enriching perspective on contemporary African art, also captivates the public by its aesthetic and natural setting. Its refined spaces, the contrast of the zebra-striped walls and a cleverly studied luminosity come together to highlight each work in its best light.
LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery highlights multidisciplinary artists — visual artists, photographers and sculptors — through a rigorous program, including solo and group exhibitions, as well as participation in international biennials and art fairs. Its meticulously organized calendar offers artists a platform for promotion both in Côte d’Ivoire and abroad.
The artistic space supports a range of contemporary artists, both emerging and established, including: Ablade Glover, Dominique Zinkpè, Wanger Ayu, Prosper Aluu, Ghislain Brown-Kossi, Alun Be, Ange Dakouo, N’Doye Douts, Oumar Ball, Ange-Arthur Koua, Obou Gbais, Aida Muluneh, Sess Essoh, Richmond Téhé, Stéphane Cuxac and Théophany Adoh. Through this, it positions itself as an essential reference in the Ivorian, African and international cultural landscape.
Its wish is to disseminate current creation, to stand alongside the creators of this fertile breeding ground of artists, in order to make them known and to raise awareness among a new generation of collectors.
Location: Mermoz Rue C 27
Cocody – Near the Goethe Institut
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Rotonde des Arts Contemporains
The Rotonde des Arts Contemporains, a flagship establishment of Abidjan culture, is a contemporary art center created by the Nour Al Hayat Foundation, managed by the Initiative pour l’art contemporain association. Under the artistic direction of Yacouba Konaté, an emblematic figure of Ivorian Fine Arts, the gallery bears witness to the cultural effervescence of the country.
Upstairs, a permanent exhibition traces the history of Ivorian contemporary art through significant works by great masters such as Frédéric Bruly-Bouabré, Christian Lattier, Ananias Leki Dago, Jems Robert Koko Bi, Michel Kodjo, James Houra, Samir Stenka, Monnè Bou and Aboudia, among others.
On the ground floor of the Rotonde des Arts Contemporains, temporary thematic exhibitions highlight contemporary artists, both local and international. The Rotonde also offers the sale of exhibition catalogues and cultural works, offering a professional and warm welcome to its visitors.
At the same time, the Abidjan art gallery is organizing a competition for young talents, inviting photographers, painters and sculptors to capture the vibrant images of the cities – Abidjan, Bouaké, Korhogo, Man, San Pedro – which are full of life and energy. This springboard, intended for amateur and professional artists, focuses on scenes of life and portraits revealing a rich and unique culture, an innovative initiative intended to highlight African creativity but also the rich Ivorian culture and society.
Location: Nour Al Hayat Commercial Gallery
Plateau – Abidjan – Ivory Coast
Studer Gallery
At the crossroads of contemporary art and urban architecture, Studer Gallery stands out as a true catalyst for creativity. Based in Abidjan and also present in Dubai, this artistic center has successfully established itself on international stages, demonstrating its remarkable adaptability. Its multidimensional explorations across various geographical contexts are manifested by exclusive partnerships and a showcase of emerging and established artists, demonstrating an unparalleled creative richness.
In a relentless quest for new forms of expression, the Ivorian Studer gallery offers its artists a unique opportunity to leave their mark on the architecture of major cities. This innovative approach has fostered the emergence of new collaborations and exhibitions of exceptional quality, thus enriching the Ivorian contemporary artistic landscape.
Today, Studer Gallery supports around fifteen artists with varied origins and diverse creative horizons, including iconic names such as JonOne, Zemba Luzamba, Jean-Servais Somian, Miles Regis, Philippe Perrin, L’Atlas, Raji Bamidele, Tsuyu Bridwell, Siriki Ky, Thomas Berthuel-Bonnes, Mr Brainwash, Johanna Bramble, Sidney Carron, Soly Cissé, Barnabé, Gregory Gaydu and Jisbar.
You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a multidisciplinary creative space, where representative arts from various continents harmoniously intertwine.
Location: 13 boulevard Hassan II,
Cocody Ambassades,
Abidjan – Ivory Coast
WALLS House Of Art
The Walls House of Art stands out among the art galleries in Abidjan that illuminate the artistic landscape of Ivory Coast, due to the immersive richness of its creative universe. Located in Marcory, Abidjan, this artistic house moves away from classic models to become a true place of discovery where different universes are combined, mainly focused on contemporary creation.
It establishes an exemplary cultural harmony by promoting collaboration between authors from various backgrounds. The relevance of the works presented lies in this singular perspective on art and the world, offering visitors rich and uninhibited creations, dealing with sensitive subjects as well as contemporary realities.
Like other Ivorian galleries, Walls House of Art is committed to promoting artistic creation without borders through dynamic programming and international collaborations. In addition, the center strives to build strong ties with surrounding communities, organizing multidisciplinary meetings and events alongside its exhibitions.
Artists who contribute to this dynamic art space include: Yubah Sanogo, Bernard Tano, Souleymane Konaté, Ahryun Lee, Loué.h, Elham Etemadi, Kafana Soro, Goha Atisso…
Location: Rue Paul Langevin Zone 4
Marcory – Abidjan – Ivory Coast