Artist Proof Studio (APS) will be exhibiting at FNB Art Joburg, which takes place from the 6 to 8 September at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Artist Proof Studio (APS) has become a vital space for nurturing artists and cultivating printmaking techniques and practices in South Africa.

Burgeoning as well as established artists have been shaped and mentored by the APS and will be on display during Artist Proof Studio’s return participation in FNB Art Joburg 2024.

One rising star whose work fair goers will be able to see is Lebohang Motaung. She uses hair as a medium to explore identity, culture, and social issues. Motaung is known for her dimensional artworks that place physical hair braiding on a canvas or a sculpture, and in this instance, she transfers this sophistication, pattern, and style to prints. After completing a B-Tech degree in Fine Arts, Motaung attended the APS printmaking programme. She says of her time at the studio, “It was so important for me to go there because the APS is about the practical side of art; they introduced us to the business of art”.

Motaung’s work has been showcased locally and internationally and her first solo show took place at Lizamore & Associates in 2023. More recently her art was selected to represent South Africa and demonstrate our artistic talent at Ekhaya, the South African hospitality village at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Other up and coming artists worth keeping an eye out for at APS’s FNB Art Joburg stand include Lazi Mathebula whose recent collection Bekumnandi Sisonke captures the spirit of the historically significant suburb Sophiatown, and its residents. Or Thokozani Madonsela’s work that is widely recognised for its iconic faceless, and often laughing figures that represent neutrality in human identity.

APS was founded in 1991 by printmakers Kim Berman and the late Nhlanhla Xaba. Today, it’s an innovative community art centre based in Houghton, Johannesburg. The APS team are involved with all aspects of printmaking including creation, sales, training and community engagement. They’re also committed to the longevity of printmaking, and recognise the role it can play in skills development, mentorship, and creating an accessible arts education.

There are several established artists, who are past students of the APS and some of their work will be on display at the art fair too. Nelson Makamo is one such example. His art is internationally recognised and has been featured on the cover of Time Magazine. Prints by both Bambo Sibiya and Phillemon Hlungwani will be on show too. Both artists are now represented by the oldest commercial gallery in Africa, Everard Read.

Artist Proof Studio will also be exhibiting works by artists, Abe Mathabe, David Tsoka, Kagiso Diale, Mary Sibande, Mongezi Ncaphayi, Nompumelelo Ngoma, Ramarutha Makoba,Thokozani Madonsela, Walter Oltmann, William Kentridge.

“Artist Proof Studio is a cornerstone of the Johannesburg artistic community. It plays a critical role in nurturing emerging talent, providing education, resources, and opportunities for artists to develop their skills and careers. APS is also a hub for artistic innovation, fostering a sense of community among artists and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Johannesburg. The studio's commitment to social development through art makes it a vital institution in promoting equality, creativity, and artistic excellence”. Reneilwe Mathibe, Communications and Marketing Manager, Artist Proof Studio

"As both a fine artist and hairstylist, plaiting hair has always been part of my life. Over the years, it has become central to my research and art practice. I am fascinated by the arrangements, patterns, and textures that hair offers. My mission has always been more than making women beautiful. Through my work, I aim to portray a sense of confidence and contentment and to reflect on issues of shame, stereotypes, and insults related to African hair." Labohang Motaung

Visit artistproofstudio.co.za for more information. Follow the Artist Proof Studio on Instagram @artistproofjhb