by Lin Barrie
Attending the FNB Joburg Art Fair this September was a whirlwind of inspiration, creativity, and cultural exchange. Johannesburg, often referred to as the artistic powerhouse of Southern Africa, became the perfect backdrop for this event. The fair was structured into several sections, with Gallery HUB at its core, showcasing prestigious names such as Goodman Gallery, Everard Read, Stevenson Gallery, and First Floor Gallery Harare.
My first stop was at First Floor Gallery, where I had the pleasure of meeting Valerie Kabov and Marcus Gora. Their space was brimming with energy with works by esteemed artists from their stable, particularly as they celebrated Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude, winner of the 2024 FNB Joburg Art Prize. His powerful, evocative painting set the tone for the rest of the fair. Over the next few days, I also made a point to visit Guns & Rain Gallery to view the thought-provoking pieces by Princia Matungulu and Hedwig Barry, among others. Guns & Rain gallery owner Julie Taylor was showing Raymond Fuyana, a talented young deaf artist from Zimbabwe at their booth at the art fair.
At the Aux Theatre, Karabo Morule from Capital Art spoke alongside Susie Goodman of Strauss & Co and Gail Bosch of iTOO Artinsure, offering insights on art collecting and financial sustainability in the industry. These discussions left me energized and eager for a follow-up lunch with Susie and Khetiwe next week.
One of the most captivating exhibitions I experienced was at Marianne Fassler’s Leopard Frock Collection. Marianne’s home, a textured kaleidoscope of African art, fashion, and craft, echoed my own passion for the cultural layers I strive to collect and incorporate into my work. I was particularly struck by a Gresham painting that glowed in her dining room, alongside stunning beaded works by Mayeye Makubele.
Friday evening, I found myself at Circa Gallery, a marvel of modern art architecture. Robin Rhode led an intimate walkabout, explaining his interdisciplinary work that blends street culture with fine art. His installations and use of urban walls as canvases resonated deeply with me. The rooftop sundowner with other art lovers was the perfect way to close out the day.
Saturday brought a visit to the historic Johannesburg Art Gallery, where Gresham’s solo exhibition, as the 2024 FNB Art Prize winner, is set to take place next year. This year, Lindokuhle Sobekwa, the 2023 prize winner, was showcasing his body of work. My time at the Joburg Art Gallery, along with discovering works by Norman Catherine, stirred memories of my earlier collaborations with him at Deadly Designs in Zimbabwe.
The art fair wasn’t just confined to the Sandton Comvention Centre; Open City, running at the same time, took over Johannesburg with a series of art and cultural events. One of the highlights of the week was the after-party with BantuSpaceships at Untitled Basement in Braamfontein. The energy was palpable, as the fusion of music, art, and people created an unforgettable evening.
On the final day of the fair, I was greeted once again by Gresham’s striking paintings at the First Floor Gallery booth. We shared a few words, reflecting on how far he’s come and where he’s headed. I also found myself drawn to Steven Cohen’s surreal body art and performances, a reminder of how art constantly pushes boundaries, blending the personal with the public.
My FNB Joburg Art Fair exprience concluded with Blessing Ngobeni’s vivid works—a perfect end to a deeply fulfilling and inspiring week. This year’s fair not only celebrated contemporary African art but also highlighted Johannesburg’s role as a cultural beacon, radiating creativity and collaboration across the continent.k
See slide show gallery of photos that highlight some of my excursions in Joburg:
This article is adopted from Wine and Wild Dogs by Lin Barrie. Please visit the blog at https://wineandwilddogs.art
Lin Barrie is a Zimbabwean artist and writer based in the Save Valley Conservancy, where she lives with her partner, conservationist Clive Stockil. Her work, primarily oil,earth pigment and mixed media reflects her deep connection to the local ecosystem, expressing her love and concern for its landscapes, wildlife, and people through direct observation. Lin's art is featured in private and public collections across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and globally. She is represented by galleries in South Africa, Zimbabwe, England, Kenya, and the United States.
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