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Raw Material Company

4.5
·67 reviews·Dakar, Senegal

A vibrant hub for contemporary art, culture, and intellectual exchange in Dakar, featuring a rich library and engaging programs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere and events

CrowdMedium
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Exterior

Raw Material Company

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere and events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub for contemporary art, culture, and intellectual exchange in Dakar, featuring a rich library and engaging programs.

4.5
(67 reviews)

"One of the best art spaces in Dakar, with an exceptional bookstore and engaging cultural programs."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Explore the Bookstore

Don't miss the extensive collection of African literature and art books. A true gem!

📅 Check Event Schedule

RAW frequently hosts talks, workshops, and exhibitions. Check their schedule beforehand!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 67 reviews

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Experience cutting-edge art from local and international artists, showcasing diverse perspectives and creative expressions.

African Literature Bookstore

African Literature Bookstore

Dive into a curated collection of African literature, architecture, and urban culture, a treasure trove for bibliophiles.

Cultural and Intellectual Hub

Cultural and Intellectual Hub

Engage in stimulating discussions, workshops, and events that foster artistic and intellectual dialogue.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Dakar's Artistic Heart

Raw Material Company (RAW) is a vibrant hub for contemporary art, culture, and intellectual exchange in Dakar. Explore its rich library and engaging programs.

Engage with African Creativity

RAW hosts diverse exhibitions and events, making it a prime spot for art lovers and those interested in African literature, architecture, and urban culture.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere and events
Crowd
Medium
When
During exhibition openings
Why
Meet artists and curators
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

During my recent visit to Dakar, I purchased some beautiful boubous and wanted to share both my experience buying them and a brief history of this significant West African garment. From exploring the bustling markets to learning about the rich textile traditions, each boubou tells a story of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Fun fact: This versatile garment goes by many names across West Africa...
@zfoma
4.1K likes • 31.8K views

📚 Explore the Bookstore

Don't miss the extensive collection of African literature and art books. A true gem! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

RAW frequently hosts talks, workshops, and exhibitions. Check their schedule beforehand! Reddit

#RAWTeam RAW MATERIAL COMPANY recrute! WE ARE HIRING? Poste: Assistant.e en Commissariat / Curatorial Assistant Pour postuler → regarder le lien en bio: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1axVHZBNEE6RPq2Bv-5HUhniO5-ICkfU0mfK_ht6qs2I/prefill To apply → check link in bio: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15GCcVBbHTDhoH8gR8wTAQ93mNvQKylXadALwSvkKnvo/prefill @fbrsy @altdel_ @rimza21 @fallmamefarma @...
raw.gram2011
170 likes • 5.1K views
Hear from Fatima Bintou Rassoul SY (@fbrsy), Director of Programs and Curator at RAW Material Company (RAW) (@raw.gram2011 ), Dakar, Senegal, who spoke alongside seven other globally renowned curators at this year’s Experimenter Curators’ Hub @experimenterkol , held from 18-19 July. Founded by the late Koyo Kouoh (@madamekoyo ) in 2008, RAW has become a leading platform for critical reflection on ...
indiaartfair
294 likes • 8K views

💡 Engage with Programs

Participate in their diverse programs for a deeper cultural and intellectual experience. Reddit

✨ Soak in the Vibe

Enjoy the positive and inspiring atmosphere, perfect for art lovers and thinkers. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Explore the Bookstore

Don't miss the extensive collection of African literature and art books. A true gem! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

RAW frequently hosts talks, workshops, and exhibitions. Check their schedule beforehand! Reddit

💡 Engage with Programs

Participate in their diverse programs for a deeper cultural and intellectual experience. Reddit

✨ Soak in the Vibe

Enjoy the positive and inspiring atmosphere, perfect for art lovers and thinkers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(67 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Raw Material Company as a top art space in Dakar, highlighting its rich library of African literature and its role as a hub for cultural and intellectual encounters. The engaging programs and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for art lovers.

"Rich environment with a rich library for art. Good energies only."

Elolo Bosoka

"One of the best art space in Dakar. With one of the best bookstore of African littérature, Architecture, contemporary art and urban culture."

Djibril DRAME

"One of my favorite places for artistic, cultural and intellectual encounters. It always has interesting programs"

Diomaye A. Ngom

What People Like

Rich art environment
Excellent bookstore
Engaging programs

What People Dislike

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Raw Material Company is located in Dakar, Senegal. While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services within the city. It's recommended to use a navigation app for the most up-to-date directions. TikTok

Parking availability can be challenging in busy urban areas like Dakar. It's advisable to inquire directly with the venue or consider using taxis or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

Raw Material Company is situated in a vibrant part of Dakar. It's best to use a mapping service to pinpoint its exact location relative to your starting point. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Raw Material Company is generally free, though specific exhibitions or ticketed events may occur. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates on admission policies. Reddit

Opening hours can vary depending on exhibitions and events. It's recommended to check the official Raw Material Company website or their social media channels for the most current operating hours. Reddit

For special events, workshops, or ticketed exhibitions, booking in advance is often recommended. Information on how to book will typically be available on their website or social media pages. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Raw Material Company showcases contemporary art, often featuring a diverse range of mediums and themes from both Senegalese and international artists. Instagram

Yes, Raw Material Company boasts an impressive bookstore specializing in African literature, architecture, and urban culture, making it a significant cultural resource. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, inquire at the venue about the possibility of guided tours or if staff can provide insights into current exhibitions. Reddit

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as rich, energetic, and intellectually stimulating, fostering good vibes and artistic encounters. Reddit

While the focus is on contemporary art and intellectual engagement, the bookstore and some exhibitions might be suitable for older children interested in art and culture. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Raw Material Company primarily focuses on its artistic and literary offerings. There are typically no in-house dining facilities, but numerous cafes and restaurants are available in the surrounding Dakar area. TikTok

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside of exhibition spaces and libraries to preserve the artworks and materials. Check for specific venue policies. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary per exhibition. It's advisable to look for signage or ask staff before taking photos, especially with flash, to protect the artworks. TikTok

The unique architecture, curated bookstore shelves, and vibrant exhibition spaces offer excellent photographic opportunities. TikTok

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Raw Material Company (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide