A Guide to Lagos Art Galleries and Exhibition Spaces

Lagos has emerged as one of Africa's most important art capitals, and the gallery scene here reflects a city bursting with creative energy. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply curious about Nigerian contemporary art, these spaces should be on your radar. Nike Art Gallery in Lekki is a must-visit — founded by Nike Davies-Okundaye, this four-storey gallery houses one of the largest collections of Nigerian art anywhere. From traditional textiles to contemporary paintings, the sheer variety is overwhelming in the best way possible. Terra Kulture on Tiamiyu Savage Street has been a cultural institution since 2003. Beyond its gallery space, it hosts theatre performances, film screenings, and literary events. Their rotating exhibitions consistently feature some of the most exciting emerging artists in West Africa. For cutting-edge contemporary work, Rele Gallery in Onikan has gained international recognition. They've shown artists who've gone on to exhibit at the Venice Biennale and Art Basel, making it a great place to discover the next big name. Art Twenty One in Ikoyi specialises in modern and contemporary African art, with a focus on established Nigerian artists. The space itself is beautifully designed and worth visiting for the architecture alone. The Yaba art scene is also growing, with studios and pop-up galleries appearing regularly. Keep an eye on social media for announcements about open studio events and art walks in the neighbourhood. First Fridays have become a tradition in Lagos' art world — many galleries coordinate their openings on the first Friday of each month, making it easy to gallery-hop across the city.