The Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2026 invites collectors and newcomers to explore contemporary art from global artists. Featuring 126 exhibitors and over 490 artists, the event offers a democratic space for art appreciation. Curator Tandazani Dhlakama shares insights on navigating the fair and its theme of 'Listen'.
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair (ICTAF) stands as one of the art world's key events, drawing both experts and beginners. Set for 20 to 22 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, it showcases works from more than 490 artists through 126 exhibitors worldwide. As Africa's largest art fair, it provides a commercial yet accessible platform for engaging with contemporary art.
Curator Tandazani Dhlakama emphasizes the fair's appeal beyond museums. 'You can literally see 100 artworks in one weekend,' she says. 'And the nice thing about a fair is that there will always be surprises.' Visitors can interact directly with gallerists or artists, allowing immediate questions and deeper understanding.
To navigate the expansive venue, Dhlakama suggests beginning with curated sections, which offer thematic narratives. This year's 10 sections include Tomorrows/Today, curated by Dr Mariella Franzoni; SOLO, by Céline Seror; Generations, by Dhlakama; and Cabinet/Record, by Beata America. All align with the theme 'Listen', described as 'an increasingly radical act' amid a noisy world, encouraging slow contemplation.
In the Generations section, Dhlakama pairs younger and senior artists to foster a 'call-and-response' dialogue. For spontaneous exploration, she recommends photographing intriguing pieces on a first pass, followed by a slower review.
Dhlakama praises the fair's inclusivity, featuring galleries from major players to smaller ones. 'I like Cape Town Art Fair because it feels more democratic,' she notes. Collecting supports artists directly: 'Every time you buy a work, you’re actually changing a life.' She hopes attendees gain a broader view of African art's diversity and talent.