Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Marina Smithers-Carlaw said this year’s fair will place increased emphasis on new work and the promotion of emerging South African artists.
“The fair was extremely well-received, and visitors expressed their wish for this to become an annual event on the Jozi calendar,” she said.
The venue’s history and position in Newtown provided this year’s central theme – ‘Emerge’.
“The constantly changing area from market to slum to economic centre to creative hub, all representative of broader Johannesburg, should provide gallery exhibitors with motivation for their curated spaces,” said Smithers-Carlaw.
Among the galleries to participate in this year’s fair are !Kauru, Art Botswana, Artist Proof Studio, Blaque Inq, Carol Lee Fine Art, Circa on Jellicoe, David Krut, Gallery AOP, In Toto Gallery, Joao Ferreira, Kalk Bay Modern, Lizamore and Associates, Res Gallery, Silt, and Warren Siebrits.
Young and emerging artists had the opportunity to submit work, and a selection of the best pieces, chosen by a judging panel, will be shown in a curated group exhibition, facilitated by Assemblage and supported by Rand Merchant Bank, at the fair.
The fair will also feature a larger exhibition, Nathaniel Stern’s Compressionism series presentation, and interactive talks.
Guest speakers include auctioneer Ruarc Peffers, collector Warren Siebrits, gallerist Tamzin Lovell, artist Sam Nhlengethwa, consultant Koulla Xinisteris, and collector Dr Oupa Morari.
The fair will also engage with the broader Newtown, Braamfontein and inner city to create an arty weekend experience including guided tours and hospitality packages, a jazz festival produced by The Bassline, and walkabouts and art areas for children.
AngloGold Ashanti will also exhibit the finalists in the 2014 AUDITIONS competition.
“Too few people have the opportunity to acquire art, let alone have the confidence to start their own art collections – which is why we started the [fair],” said Glynis Hyslop, managing director of the fair’s main sponsor, The Forum Company.
“The fair is the perfect platform for those [who want] to start collecting South African art in a unique, undaunting way… The whole experience offers something for everyone.”
The Turbine Hall Art Fair will run from 17 to 20 July at the Turbine Hall, 65 Ntemi Piliso Street, Newtown.
Details: 011 880 7183; www.turbineartfair.co.za
