FNB helps to position African art as a strong contender globally

First National Bank (FNB) the proud sponsor of Africa’s second contemporary art fair to be held in Johannesburg promises to be an electromagnetic experience as it exhibits a wide selection of creative individuals from across the country and continent.

The South African art market is indeed following world trends, as South African paintings have been realizing fabulous prices. The art market is booming on a global level and South Africa is no exception. In 2007, Bonhams of London established their first-ever auction solely devoted to South African art. It saw over $2,000,000 worth of art being auctioned and included works by major South African artists.

The FNB Joburg Art Fair boasts one of the largest art collections in the African continent. With over 25 galleries covering 5000 square meters, audiences can expect an array of extravagant pieces of art from across the African continent including South Africa.

“A whooping R30 million worth of art was sold at the fair in 2008 and this is expected to increase dramatically this year as more galleries will participate in this year’s event” says Ross Douglass director at Artlogic.

The success of the fair lies in its ability to give buyers a single point of access that will provide a range of galleries that have credentials and expertise to profile top artists and can also see a cross-section of work in a short space of time.

“South Africa plans to establish itself as an essential stopover on the global contemporary art buying calendar,” says Francois Piennaar head of sponsorships at FNB.

The fair will also include eight special projects and 33 artist talks. Tumelo Mosaka a South African who has accolades internally from Brooklyn museum has been assigned to lead the event. Art on show will range in price from R1000 to 5 million.

The Joburg art fair will take place at the Sandton Convention centre from the 3 to the 5 of April 2009.

FNB believes in promoting and establishing African art as a strong contender within the international arena.