In 2016, PH Attorneys conceived an ambitious vision to recognise and celebrate excellence and creativity in all its forms. This passion for creativity extended beyond their own discipline, leading them to establish the New Breed Art Competition—a unique visual arts competition exclusively for Free State artists. The competition continues to provide a dynamic platform for Free State artists to showcase their talents, contemporary art, and gain national exposure, all whilst nurturing a new breed of artists.
Over the years, the competition has become a beacon for emerging artists, offering them a chance to be discovered and celebrated as part of this new breed of creative visionaries.
Invaluable workshops
In partnership with ABSA Bank, the New Breed Art Competition takes its commitment to nurturing talent a step further. Three art workshops, generously free of charge, will be offered to emerging Free State artists. These workshops, conceptualised in collaboration with the Free State Art Collective, will serve as invaluable opportunities for skills development, mentorship, and networking, further fuelling the artistic growth of the region.
Exceptional mentors
The first workshop, scheduled for 11 and 12 August 2023, will feature mentorship sessions with Lawrence Lemaoana, an internationally exhibited and collected visual artist. Represented by Afronova Gallery, Lemaoana brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, making this an exceptional opportunity for aspiring artists to learn from a master of their craft.
The second workshop, focusing on Video Art, will take place on 19 August. Led by Louis Krüger and Evert Kleynhans, this session will delve into the realm of video and digital media. Louis Krüger, whose expertise in video and digital media is honed by his work for a leading online streaming company, promises to share invaluable insights. Alongside him, Evert Kleynhans, a passionate new media designer known for exceptional television and video production work, will enrich the workshop with his technical expertise.
After the Video Art workshop, participants will have a two-week window to create their artwork, and they will be able to register to join a follow-up session to receive valuable feedback on their videos.
The Video Art feedback session will take place on 2 September and will be conducted by Johandi du Plessis. As an artist and lecturer in Fine Arts at UFS, du Plessis' exploration of various genres and modes in her artistic practice, especially new media, will provide invaluable feedback and critique to the participants.
Finally, on 26 August, the Photography workshop will feature Neo Theku and Bongani Tshabalala. Neo Theku, the winner of the 2019 New Breed Art competition, who focuses on photography and video, contemplates the impact of conflicting societal influences on black male identity through his art. Bongani Tshabalala, a self-taught and award-winning photographer, uses his contemporary style to narrate the stories of African people, lending unique perspectives to the workshop.
Register for the workshops
Secure your spot by registering as soon as possible, as there are limited numbers available for each session.
Workshop 1: Mentorship with Lawrence Lemaoana
11 and 12 August 2023
Choose between a morning or afternoon session
Register: https://www.newbreedart.co.za/WorkshopMentorship.aspx
Workshop 2: Video Art
First session: 19 August 2023
Feedback session: 2 September 2023
Register: https://www.newbreedart.co.za/WorkshopVideo.aspx
Workshop 3: Photography
26 August 2023
Register: https://www.newbreedart.co.za/WorkshopPhotography.aspx
The New Breed Art Competition has become a pillar of support for Free State artists, fostering their creativity and propelling them toward national recognition. Through these workshops, in partnership with ABSA Bank, it continues to nurture the next generation of artists and reminds us all of the boundless power of creativity to shape our world. As we look forward to the upcoming workshops, we celebrate the spirit of innovation and artistry that defines the Free State's creative landscape.