The MTN SA Foundation in collaboration with the UJ Art Gallery have announced a public call to young curators to enter for the prestigious MTN x UJ New Contemporaries Award. This collaborative initiative seeks to empower emerging young curators from the South African contemporary art scene who are looking to launch their careers and make their mark.
The partnership between the UJ Art Gallery and the MTN SA Foundation began in 2017 and is a flourishing one. The New Contemporaries Award is an important milestone in this relationship. ‘The partnership aims to provide mentorships in curatorial training while developing the next generation of contemporary South African artists and curators. This will also extend both institutions’ footprint in the contemporary arts space,’ says Niel Nortje, MTN Art Collection Manager.
The call will remain open until the 30th of September 2024 after which the UJ Art Gallery and MTN SA Foundation curatorial teams will review submissions and shortlist candidates by the 31st of October 2024. The final selection made by the New Contemporary Award Legacy Panel will be announced on the 13th of February 2025.
This award provides a unique opportunity for a young curator to gain exposure and vital experience over several months. As part of the awards programme, the nominated curator will select and collaborate with four artists in curating an exhibition. There will also be an art education winter school targeted at secondary-level learners as well as an arts mentorship program for tertiary students and recent graduates. The successful curator will be expected to conduct research, be comfortable with exploring VR possibilities, travel to the selected artists for studio visits and thoroughly plan the exhibition which will open in the beginning of 2026 at the UJ Art Gallery. To apply, please complete the application form.
