BRAFA Art Fair - Tribal Art Winter 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wF8WwOHkLJc
Ingo Barlovic is a German expert and writer specializing in traditional African and Oceanic art. He contributes articles to Kunst und Auktionen, a publication focused on art and auctions, where he discusses topics such as tribal art and material culture. His research interests include material culture studies, Oceanic art, and anthropology.
Barlovic is also active on platforms like Instagram, where he shares insights on tribal art and updates related to exhibitions and auctions.. Additionally, he manages the YouTube channel "about-africa and the rest of the world," which focuses on non-European indigenous art and culture
The 70th edition of the BRAFA Art Fair, held from January 26 to February 2, 2025, at the Brussels Expo, featured a remarkable showcase of tribal art alongside other artistic disciplines. This prestigious event brought together 130 galleries from 16 countries, presenting a diverse collection of works ranging from antiquities to contemporary art.
Highlights of Tribal Art at BRAFA 2025
Focus on African and Oceanic Art:
The fair prominently displayed traditional African and Oceanic art, with galleries like Dalton Somaré and Serge Schoffel showcasing classic pieces such as Dan masks and Lega sculptures from the Congo region.
These works reflect the deep cultural heritage and craftsmanship of indigenous communities, appealing to collectors familiar with these traditions.
Exhibitor Diversity:
Exhibitors like Flak Gallery stood out for their eclectic collections, blending tribal art from Africa with pieces from regions like New Zealand and the Himalayas. This diversity emphasized BRAFA's commitment to cross-cultural artistic dialogue.
Conservative Yet Evolving Tastes:
While Brussels-based collectors often lean toward traditional and well-known tribal art forms, this year’s fair saw efforts to introduce more progressive and unconventional pieces.
Educational Initiatives:
The fair emphasized education through guided tours and workshops, helping visitors understand the historical and cultural significance of tribal artifacts.
Broader Context of BRAFA 2025
The event celebrated its milestone 70th edition with an emphasis on blending styles and eras, creating a unique "cross-collecting" experience for attendees.
Joana Vasconcelos, the Guest of Honour, contributed monumental textile sculptures inspired by Norse mythology, adding a contemporary dimension to the fair.
Rigorous vetting processes ensured the authenticity and quality of all displayed works, reinforcing BRAFA’s reputation as a leading global art fair.
Tribal art at BRAFA 2025 not only highlighted traditional craftsmanship but also demonstrated how these works can resonate within modern and diverse artistic contexts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wF8WwOHkLJc
