A significant milestone in global cultural exchange has been achieved with the launch of Moscow’s first permanent space dedicated to contemporary African art. The inaugural exhibition, titled “And Behold!”, was unveiled by the I-A Gallery, offering Russian audiences a vibrant and immersive introduction to the contemporary African art scene.
The exhibition features powerful works by acclaimed artists Boet Nyariri (Zimbabwe) and Mulenga Mubanga (Zambia), both of whom have exhibited in major shows and have their pieces housed in prestigious private and institutional collections across Africa and Europe. This marks the first time their work is being shown in Russia. The exhibition is the result of a collaboration with African collector Stephane Conan, and includes direct contributions from the artists.
Curated by Dr. Yanina Dubeykovskaya, philosopher and founder of the I-A Gallery, alongside Taisiia Konstantinova, African art historian and Director of Strategic Development at I-A Gallery, the show sets the tone for a year-long program spotlighting diverse African artistic voices.
Over the next year, the space will host a series of exhibitions showcasing artists from more than 12 African countries, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Namibia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ghana, and Madagascar, among others.
Each exhibition will be complemented by public programming such as lectures, screenings, and artist talks to foster ongoing dialogue between African and Russian art communities.
This November, the gallery will also present the Zambezi Art Residency, which will run from November 2 to 12, 2025. Centered on the theme of “Initiation,” the residency will bring together international artists and cultural tourists to explore African landscapes and initiation rites through collaborative creation, research, and reflection. The program will conclude with a group exhibition.
Additionally, I-A Gallery serves as a partner of the African Women in Art Award (AWAA) — an international platform recognizing female African artists. The 2025 theme, also titled “Initiation,” invites artists to interpret themes of coming-of-age, transformation, identity, and cultural heritage. Submissions open in September 2025, with the deadline set for November 1, 2025.
Applications and partnership inquiries can be directed to: awaaapplication@gmail.com
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