Exploring the Richness of South Africa’s Art Scene

4 mins read
south african art modernism

South African art is on the rise, with artists like Irma Stern and Alexis Preller gaining global recognition. The Evening Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg on May 28th, 2024 features many pieces highlighting the diversity and talent of South African artists. This auction offers a comprehensive overview of South African art, tracing its roots through to the present day, and signifies a crucial stride in the international restoration of South Africa’s historical artists.

The Emergence of South African Art Talent

South African art has been experiencing a steady ascendance, with the oeuvres of particular artists solidifying their standing within the modern art hierarchy. Artists such as Dumile Feni, Maggie Laubser, Esther Mahlangu, George Pemba, J.H. Pierneef, Alexis Preller, Gerard Sekoto Lucas Sithole, Irma Stern, Anton van Wouw, and Edoardo Villa have become hallmarks of South African art collection.

The Emergence of South African Art Talent

South African art has been experiencing a steady ascendance, with the oeuvres of particular artists solidifying their standing within the modern art hierarchy. Artists such as Dumile Feni, Maggie Laubser, Esther Mahlangu, George Pemba, J.H. Pierneef, Alexis Preller, Gerard Sekoto Lucas Sithole, Irma Stern, Anton van Wouw, and Edoardo Villa have become hallmarks of South African art collection. A number of these creators, only recently starting to gain global recognition, are highlighted in the two-segment Day and Evening auction of modern and contemporary art presented by Strauss & Co in Johannesburg, due on May 28th, 2024.

The Evening Art Auction: A Glimpse into South African Modernism

The Evening Sale, an 85-lot catalogue commencing at 19:00, is headlined by Irma Stern’s striking 1930 depiction of a young woman seated, titled ‘Cape Girl with Fruit’. Stern’s creation phase during this time was characterized by regular travels across Southern Africa and frequent exhibitions in Europe. This remarkable, grand work signifies the birth of Stern’s decadent and mature style, widely acclaimed today.

Alexis Preller’s vibrant beach landscape, ‘Fisherman Mending Nets, Beau Vallon’, echoes a recurring theme of paradise. It reminisces his pivotal sojourn to the Seychelles in 1949. Preller, who is currently being celebrated with a career retrospective at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town, has two pieces showcased in the evening session. Stern graces the auction with a staggering five works, inclusive of the ‘Still Life with Amaryllis’, a pause in her influential tenure representing South Africa at four renditions of the Venice Biennale.

The Rediscovery of South African Art

Dr Alastair Meredith, the Head of the Department of Fine Art at Strauss & Co, asserts that the global public thought primarily overlooked South African avant-garde painting of the 20th century. Nevertheless, South African modernists have been garnering increasing acknowledgement in international exhibitions and literature in recent years. The 2024 Venice Biennale, featuring nearly a dozen of the country’s foremost modernists, signifies a crucial stride in the international restoration of South Africa’s historical artists.

The Evening Sale offers a comprehensive overview of South African art, tracing its early roots with artists like Frans Oerder and Pieter Wenning, through the emergence of the black modernist canon with figures like Pemba and Sekoto, and right up to the vibrant present day. Among the high-value pieces are two drawings by William Kentridge, ‘Preparing the Flute’ and a WW1 battle scene from his 2002 stop-animation film, ‘Zeno Writing’.

The Diversity and Talent of South African Artists

The Evening Sale also features a notable casting from the Nisini foundry of Anton van Wouw’s bronze, ‘Slegte Nuus’. Contemporary sculptor Dylan Lewis also has three pieces showcased in the Evening Sale. The online-only Day Sale emphasizes sculpture and includes bronzes by Deborah Bell, Andries Botha, Guy du Toit, and Herman van Nazareth. ‘Goat Girls’ is a collaborative piece by Diane Victor and Ruhan Janse van Vuuren from their ‘Scapegoat Series’. The catalogue also lists painted wood works by Norman Catherine and an early piece by Gerhard Marx.

This art auction, highlighting the immense skill and diversity of South African artists, is set to be a noteworthy occasion in the South African art calendar. The noticeable interest and growing recognition of South African modernists is not only an indicator of the artists’ escalating prestige but also underscores the broadening appreciation and understanding of South African art on the international front. As these artists continue to receive international praise, the narrative of South African art expands, crafting an intricate narrative of the country’s abundant and varied cultural heritage.

What is the Evening Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg?

The Evening Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg is a notable auction featuring an 85-lot catalogue of modern and contemporary art, showcasing the diversity and talent of South African artists. It offers a comprehensive overview of South African art, tracing its roots through to the present day, and signifies a crucial stride in the international restoration of South Africa’s historical artists.

Who are some of the notable artists featured in the Evening Sale?

The Evening Sale features works by renowned South African artists such as Irma Stern, Alexis Preller, Dumile Feni, Maggie Laubser, Esther Mahlangu, George Pemba, J.H. Pierneef, Gerard Sekoto Lucas Sithole, Anton van Wouw, Edoardo Villa, William Kentridge, Deborah Bell, Andries Botha, Guy du Toit, Herman van Nazareth, Diane Victor, Ruhan Janse van Vuuren, Norman Catherine, and Gerhard Marx.

What are some notable pieces featured in the Evening Sale?

The Evening Sale features Irma Stern’s ‘Cape Girl with Fruit’, Alexis Preller’s ‘Fisherman Mending Nets, Beau Vallon’, and William Kentridge’s ‘Preparing the Flute’ and a WW1 battle scene from his 2002 stop-animation film, ‘Zeno Writing’. The sale also features bronzes by Anton van Wouw, Dylan Lewis, Deborah Bell, Andries Botha, Guy du Toit, and Herman van Nazareth, among others.

What is the significance of South African art in the global art scene?

South African art has been experiencing a steady ascendance, with particular artists gaining global recognition in recent years. The increasing acknowledgement of South African modernists in international exhibitions and literature signifies a crucial stride in the international restoration of South Africa’s historical artists. The narrative of South African art expands, crafting an intricate narrative of the country’s abundant and varied cultural heritage.

What is the Day Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg?

The Day Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg is an online-only auction emphasizing sculpture, featuring works by notable South African artists such as Deborah Bell, Andries Botha, Guy du Toit, and Herman van Nazareth. It also includes collaborative pieces by Diane Victor and Ruhan Janse van Vuuren from their ‘Scapegoat Series’, painted wood works by Norman Catherine, and an early piece by Gerhard Marx.

How does the Evening Sale highlight the diversity of South African art?

The Evening Sale features a comprehensive overview of South African art, tracing its roots through to the present day. It includes works by a range of notable South African artists, highlighting the diversity and talent of South African art. The sale features works in various media, including paintings, drawings, sculpture, and more, showcasing the rich and varied cultural heritage of South Africa.

Previous Story

The Alluring Tale of Edson Castillo’s Transfer Conundrum at Kaizer Chiefs

Next Story

A Revolutionary Stride in South Africa’s Health Policy: The Enactment of the National Health Insurance Act

Latest from Blog

Resilience Amid Flames: Cape Town’s Response to Devastating Fires

Cape Town is bravely fighting back against the wildfires that devastated its informal settlements, which left many families homeless. Local leaders are quickly providing emergency housing and asking for more support to act faster during crises. The community is coming together, working with relief groups to help those in need, and showing incredible strength and hope. As they rebuild their lives, Cape Town’s spirit shines through, proving that even in tough times, people can unite to create a brighter future.

Transforming Policing in South Africa’s Northern Cape

In South Africa’s Northern Cape, a heartwarming initiative is changing how police treat victims of genderbased violence. They are creating special Victim Friendly Rooms in police stations, where survivors can feel safe and cared for. This project, led by Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola and her team, aims to build trust within the community and make victims feel supported. By using technology and compassionate approaches, police are not just enforcing laws; they are becoming a source of comfort and strength for those in need.

Crime and Justice in the Western Cape: A Complex Narrative

In the Western Cape of South Africa, crime and justice form a complicated story filled with both struggles and hope. High levels of drugrelated crime and illegal guns create big challenges for communities, but law enforcement, like the AntiEconomic Crimes Task Team, works hard to make things safer. A recent operation in Beacon Valley led to the arrest of four suspects and uncovered a stash of drugs and a gun, showing the ongoing battle against crime. This situation reflects not just individual actions but deeper social issues that affect many lives, highlighting the need for a fair and understanding justice system. Through this, we see a blend of resilience, culture, and the community’s strong spirit striving for a better future.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.