IFAN Museum of African Arts
Dakar
The Théodore Monod African Art Museum, located in Dakar, Senegal, is among the oldest art museums in West Africa. Originally established under the Institut Fondamental d'Afrique Noire (IFAN) in 1936, it was promoted by Senegal's first president, Léopold Senghor, and renamed in 2007 in honor of the French naturalist Théodore André Monod. The museum is housed in two architecturally significant buildings combining neo-Sudanese and colonial styles, situated prominently in Dakar's Plateau district near the National Assembly and Dakar Cathedral. It holds extensive collections from across Francophone Africa, preserving and celebrating African heritage through permanent and temporary exhibitions. The museum also serves as a cultural research center affiliated with Cheikh Anta Diop University and participates regularly in the Dakar Biennale, showcasing contemporary African and diaspora artists. Its gardens feature rare tropical species, offering visitors a serene environment to complement the rich artistic experience.
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Tip: Visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the permanent and rotating exhibitions fully. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the Dakar Biennale when special exhibitions are held. Take time to relax in the museum's tropical garden, a peaceful retreat amid Dakar's urban setting. Check the museum's website or contact them by phone for current opening hours and special events. Discounts may be available for students and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The museum is one of the oldest art museums in West Africa, founded in 1936.
- •It was promoted by Léopold Senghor, Senegal's first president and a renowned poet and cultural advocate.
- •The museum regularly hosts exhibitions as part of the Dakar Biennale, a major contemporary African art event.
- •Its architecture combines neo-Sudanese and colonial styles, making the buildings landmarks in Dakar's Plateau district.
- •The tropical garden contains rare plant species increasingly scarce in Dakar due to urbanization.
History
Founded in 1936 as part of the Institut Fondamental d'Afrique Noire under French colonial administration, the museum originally functioned within a building constructed between 1931 and 1932, which served various administrative roles before becoming a museum space in 1966.
After Senegal's independence in 1960, IFAN was integrated into Cheikh Anta Diop University, and the museum was established in its current form.
In 2007, the museum was renamed to honor Théodore André Monod, reflecting its dedication to African art and culture.
A second building was added in 1991-1992 to expand exhibition and event spaces, enhancing its role as a cultural hub in Dakar.
Place Guide
Building A - Historic Museum Building1931-1932
Constructed between 1931 and 1932, this building initially served as the palace for the commander of Dakar and later as the administrative seat of French West Africa before becoming the museum's main facility. It houses the permanent exhibition on the ground floor and temporary exhibitions of ancient art on the first floor, as well as the collection reserves.
Building B - Contemporary Exhibition Space1991-1992
Built in 1991-1992, this building complements the original with similar architectural style and includes a large 620m² gallery for temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and crafts. It also features a conference hall, offices, and banquet facilities, supporting cultural events and residencies with furnished studios for visiting artists.
Tropical Garden
The museum's garden features rare tropical plant species that are increasingly scarce in Dakar due to rapid urbanization. It provides benches for visitors to rest and reflect after touring the museum's exhibitions.
Contact
Phone: 33 823 92 68
