The excitement and anticipation surrounding the 2023 New Breed Art Competition reached its pinnacle as the winners were officially revealed during a ceremony at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum. The exhibition, featuring the works of Free State artists, is open for public viewing until 19 November 2023.
In a heartfelt opening address, the CEO of PH Attorneys and spokesperson for New Breed Art, Lesley Mokgoro, spoke about the strength of this year's entries, noting the exceptional quality, innovation, and creativity displayed by the participating artists. The commitment and passion evident in the submissions were commendable, showcasing the Free State region as a hub for emerging talent.
“I am humbled and truly honoured to be awarded this prestigious award. I thank everyone who has supported me through my journey. You have pushed me to keep pushing on and have helped me keep my head above the waves. Thank you to the people of the Free State for accepting me and helping me grow. I can officially call myself a rose of this city. To the God Almighty that blessed me with this talent and life, all glory and honour to your Name Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you”, said Lesego Motsiri, the Overall winner of the 2023 New Breed Art Competition.
Lesego entered his video artwork titled Self Portrait. In deciding on the award, the judges were unanimous in their decision, indicating that this artwork was original, introspective and engaging. They commented on the intricacy of the thought process that had gone into the work and that it was definitely not something they had seen before and in their minds the clear winner of this year’s competition.
2023 Winners
The highlight of the evening was, undoubtedly, the announcement of the winners:
1. Public Choice award winner (voted by the public): Thamsanga Michael Mfuphi, whose work titled Inkunzi isematholeni captivated over 3,200 votes, securing him the coveted title and a prize of R10,000.
2. Merit award winners
- Marcus Chigawa for his artwork titled, Kachingwe Tea Dispatch (R10,000 prize).
- Poloko (PK) Mohanoe for his artwork titled, Artistic Labour (R10,000 prize).
3. Digital Art award winner (new category): Linde Kriel for his interactive artwork titled Biting the Forbidden Fruit: A Digital Communion of Queer Redemption (R10,000 prize).
4. Runner-up: Linde Kriel, recognised for the complexity, skill, and innovative bridging of mediums in his work, earning him a prize of R20,000.
5. Overall Winner: Lesego Motsiri with his artwork titled Self Portrait, whose original, introspective, and engaging artwork secured the grand prize of R50,000 and national recognition as the Overall Winner of the 2023 New Breed Art Competition.
Partner Appreciation
A special acknowledgement was extended to the competition's partners—the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, the Art Bank of South Africa, the Free State Art Collective, and the new addition, Rooistoel. Their support and enthusiasm have significantly contributed to the competition's national prominence, providing a vital platform for Free State artists to propel their artistic careers.
Ester le Roux of the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, a partner since the competition's inception in 2016, expressed gratitude and excitement. Her words echoed the sentiment of collaboration and support that has fuelled the competition's growth over the years.
New Breed Art/ABSA workshops
Lesley also extended his gratitude to ABSA Bank Limited, acknowledging their sponsorship of engaging workshops with key South African artists under the New Breed Art banner. The impact of these workshops on the artistic community was showcased through a compelling video compilation available on the competition's website and social media channels.
Distinguished Judges
The competition's success was further attributed to the expertise and discerning eye of the all-female panel of judges for 2023:
1. Ruzy Rusike: Head Curator at the Melrose Gallery in Johannesburg.
2. Nandipha Mntambo: Renowned South African artist specialising in sculptures, videos, and photographs focusing on the human female body and identity.
3. Isabelle Grobler: Accomplished South African artist specialising in sculptural installation, painting, drawing, and printmaking.
The exhibition at Oliewenhuis Art Museum is a testament to the vibrant artistic landscape of the Free State, showcasing the creativity and potential that continue to emerge from this region.
With the echoes of applause and the resonance of the impactful workshops still fresh in our memories, the 2023 New Breed Art Competition came to and end, leaving a mark on Free State's artistic landscape. Until the next showcase, let the creativity continue to flourish, and may we continue to celebrate and inspire future generations of artists to paint their dreams and sculpt their visions.