Dakar Biennale Buzzes with Youthful Energy and Creativity

A wave of Senegalese teenagers and young adults are embracing contemporary art at Dakar's renowned biennale, encouraged by social media and new leadership, creating an inclusive atmosphere and reshaping the event's demographic.

In an exciting turn of events at the Dakar Biennale, a traditional exhibition that once catered primarily to art collectors and elite aficionados is now witnessing a surge of youthful participation. The biennale, held in Dakar’s Old Courthouse, is breaking records with teenagers and young adults visiting in droves, enriched by Senegal’s vibrant culture and bolstered by the encouragement of the country’s new president.

Every two years, the event attracts the elite of the art world adorned in designer sunglasses, but the current edition has seen the doors swing wide open to a younger, more diverse audience. Young attendees are stepping into the art scene with enthusiasm, arriving in casual yet stylish outfits, eager to explore the contemporary art on display. Many of them are experiencing the biennale for the first time, discovering modern art meant for the global stage.

“It’s fun, it’s free, it’s beautiful and it’s so Instagrammable,” said Sokna Mbene Thiam, a 17-year-old student who attended with friends. For attendees like Sokna, the biennale is more than just an exhibition—it's a social event, a photographic opportunity, and a gateway into the world of contemporary art.

This shift reflects a broader trend where cultural events are increasingly youth-centered, as social media platforms pave the way for the younger generation to engage, participate, and appreciate art in new ways. The invigorated attendance signifies a moment of transformation for the Dakar Biennale, indicating that art can bridge generational gaps and foster a more inclusive environment.