FNB Art Joburg 2024 has just opened at the Sandton Convention Centre earlier this week. This year’s edition offers a vibrant perspective on the expanding African art market. Now in its 17th edition, the fair, seamlessly integrates curatorial, community, and commercial elements through various sections. These sections are Gallery HUB, Gallery LAB, MAX, GIF, ETC, AUX, Open City, and ORG. With over 41 exhibitors representing 14 countries and showcasing works from 100 artists, this year’s edition fosters a culture of appreciation and ownership. Here’s a guide to help you fully immerse yourself in this art fair.
Curatorial Section
This year’s curatorial section is thoughtfully organized into distinct areas like Gallery Hub, MAX, GIF, ETC. Each section offers a rich tapestry of artistic expressions—from paintings and sculptures to large installations, art books, and photography. Esteemed galleries such as Stevenson, Goodman Gallery, SMAC, and Eclectica are proudly featured, allowing visitors to deeply engage with contemporary African art. Moreover, the ETC section adds an extra layer of excitement with its publications, exclusive releases, and book signings by renowned artists and curators, including highlights like Africa Art Now and Somnyama Ngonyama by Zanele Muholi.
In addition, the ORG and Gallery LAB sections explore how art institutions, both well-established and emerging, are evolving in response to the shifting art landscape, with a focus on community engagement. Galleries like 16/16 and Oroa Lapi bring fresh perspectives to these discussions.
Adding to the richness of the experience, there will be panel discussions featuring celebrated artists like Zanele Muholi and Ayana V. Jackson, alongside industry experts who will delve into crucial topics such as art insurance and the importance of curatorial exchanges. Explore the full program lineup here.
Artist Spotlight
This year’s artist selection is diverse, with standouts like Bubu Ogusi and Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude, each offering unique perspectives on the growing contemporary African art industry
Bubu Ogisi’s latest exhibition, “Synthetic Dreams,” at the 16 by 16 draws attention with its blend of tradition and technology. Known for her bold use of textiles, Ogusi explores the relationship between the natural and synthetic worlds. Recently, she collaborated with Pharrell Williams as the creative director in the film All Day I Dream About Sport. She also received the STARTS (Science, Technology, and the Arts) Prize Africa award for the digital installation of her website. Ogusi’s work places her at the forefront of innovation, combining scientific exploration, African spirituality, and fashion.
Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude, the 2024 winner of the FNB Joburg Art Prize, is another must-see artist. His work, “Immanentize the Eschaton,” will be presented at First Floor Gallery Harare.
Other artists to watch include William Kentridge with Goodman Gallery and Athi-Patra Ruga with Bhkz, Cinthia Sifa with Kalashnikov Gallery, and many more. These artists are redefining contemporary African art, making them essential figures at this year’s FNB Art Joburg.
Community: Open City Project and BMW Art Generation Program
Open City, a key initiative of FNB Art Joburg in partnership with Brand South Africa, transforms Johannesburg into a cultural hub from August 29 to September 13, 2024. This 16-day event integrates art, music, performance, food, and fashion into urban spaces, making culture accessible to all. Emphasizing community involvement, Open City invites residents to participate in creating public art, fostering ownership, and strengthening social cohesion.
Building on its successful debut in 2023, The BMW Art Generation, supported by FNB, returns for its second year. Centered around a conference on contemporary African art, it links established and emerging artists, curators, and academics globally. Scheduled for November 2024 at Nirox Sculpture Park, this year’s BMW Art Generation will feature a myriad of activities. They include; curated exhibitions, performance art, live music, and contributions from Africa’s design and fashion leaders. The program continues to celebrate and protect the future of African art, enriching the cultural landscape initiated by Open City.
Together, Open City and BMW Art Generation redefine the interaction between urban spaces, communities, and art, creating a vibrant, shared cultural experience.
The FNB Art Jourg Art Fair is on till the 8th of December. Get the full catalog here.
