Exciting news for artists across Africa as entries for the Absa L’Atelier 2024 art competition are now open. This pan-African competition, in its 38th year, is a collaboration between Absa and the South African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA).
The competition, established in 1986, aims to support and recognize emerging visual artists aged 21 to 40 from 12 qualifying countries in Africa. Artists, whether self-taught or formally trained, from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, the Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia are encouraged to apply.
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Dr. Paul Bayliss, Absa’s art and museum curator, emphasizes the competition’s legacy in providing a platform for young artists to share their creative vision and artwork with the world. Absa L’Atelier aligns with Absa’s commitment to African art and its brand purpose of being an active force for good.
The competition reflects Absa’s new brand positioning, emphasizing the importance of each artist’s narrative. Winners from each group of randomly selected countries will be named Absa L’Atelier Ambassadors for 2024, receiving prizes such as a laptop, masterclasses, mentorship, international residency, and solo exhibition.
A special prize, the Absa L’Atelier Gerard Sekoto Award, will be presented to a South African entrant who demonstrates vision and development in their art production. This award includes a 3-month residency in Paris, a solo exhibition at the Absa Gallery, and virtual masterclasses to support the winner’s personal growth.
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Interested artists can register online at https://latelier.absa.africa/ and submit a portfolio of four to five artworks by 31 May 2024 at 16:00 SAST (GMT+2). This competition provides a valuable opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their talent, tell their stories, and receive support to further their artistic careers.
