Independent Artists Are Finding New Opportunities Through the RMB Latitudes Art Fair

If you have ever felt like major art fairs tend to spotlight the same gallery names, this development is worth paying attention to.

The RMB Latitudes Art Fair returns in 2026, and it is partnering with the National Arts Council of South Africa to support INDEX, a platform dedicated to independent and emerging artists.

Why This Matters

Art fairs have traditionally focused on gallery represented artists, which has often limited access for independent practitioners.

INDEX was created to address that gap by opening participation to artists outside the traditional gallery system.

Through its partnership with the NAC, the initiative connects public arts funding with opportunities for artists to engage directly with the commercial art market and broader professional networks, including collectors and curators.

The platform has also shown results, with previous participants going on to secure gallery representation after exhibiting through INDEX.

What to Expect at the 2026 Fair

The 2026 edition of RMB Latitudes will feature a mix of artists selected by the Latitudes team and those chosen through an official NAC open call.

The programme will bring together artists from across the African continent for a curated presentation at the fair in Johannesburg.

In addition to the physical exhibition, selected works will also be showcased on Latitudes Online, extending visibility beyond the event itself.

The Bottom Line

INDEX 2026 offers a broader view of contemporary African art by expanding access beyond the traditional gallery circuit.

For visitors, it provides an opportunity to discover emerging artists alongside more established voices, in a format designed to widen participation in the art market.

RMB Latitudes 2026 takes place from 22 to 24 May 2026 at Shepstone Gardens, Johannesburg.