The Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition is one for the most enduring art competitions in the South African art landscape. Every year, hundreds of emerging artists enter the competition with the hope that their work will be selected and receive the ultimate recognition – the grand prize of R100 000 and the opportunity for a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum. Whether they win or not, artists use the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts competition as a space to showcase their work, to connect with galleries and art lovers, and build their portfolios. This is the legacy of Sasol New Signatures.
This year, the Sasol Art Gallery, in partnership with the Association of Arts, Pretoria, will present a unique exhibition showcasing works of selected artists who have consistently participated in the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts competition, demonstrating resilience and dedication to their craft, even if they have not always emerged as winners. The upcoming art exhibition, “Enduring Signatures,” opens at the Sasol Art Gallery on 19 May 2025.
“Enduring Signatures” explores the dual meaning of its title. The word “enduring” highlights the perseverance and tenacity required to sustain a career in the visual arts. These artists have faced numerous challenges and setbacks, yet their passion and commitment have remained unwavering. Their journey is a testament to the enduring spirit that drives creativity and innovation.
The term “signatures” refers to the distinctive styles and personal marks that each artist brings to their work. Just as a signature is unique to an individual, so too is the artistic expression of each participant in this exhibition. Their works reflect a diverse range of techniques, mediums, and perspectives, offering viewers a rich tapestry of visual experiences.
Sasol’s Art Curator, Cate Terblanche, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating these artists: “In ‘Enduring Signatures,’ the intent is to honour the spirit of artists who have continued to create and share their visions, regardless of the outcome of the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts competition. Their persistence and unique voices are what make the art world vibrant and dynamic.”
Participating artists include Azola Kingston, Henrico Greyling, Lisa Younger, Matthew Blackburn, Mohini Pillay, Michele Deeks, Patrick Rulore, Reinhardt Geizing, Sello Letswalo, Thabo Mofokeng and Wisani Manyisi. The exhibition features a variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. It will coincide with the regional submissions for this year’s competition, taking place on Tuesday, 10 and Wednesday 11 June 2025. Visitors to Sasol Place will have the opportunity to engage with the artists on these days, gaining deeper insights into their creative processes and the stories behind their works.
“Enduring Signatures” will run from May 19 to July 11, 2025 at the Sasol Art Gallery, 50 Katherine Street, Sandton. Admission is free, but viewing is by appointment only. For more information, or to arrange for a viewing, please contact us at art@sasol.com The artworks will be for sale through the Association of Arts, Pretoria, please consider supporting our emerging artists.
About the Sasol Art Collection
The Sasol Art Collection is one of the largest and most iconic corporate art collections in South Africa, totaling around 2500 works. While the collection contains examples of many prominent South African artists dating back to the early 1900s, it also contains many works by South Africa’s emerging artists associated with the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts competition. Viewing of the Sasol Art Collection is by appointment only, and can be arranged by emailing art@sasol.com
EXHIBITION DETAILS
Exhibition title: Enduring Signatures
Dates: May 19 to July 11, 2025
Location: Sasol Art Gallery, 50 Katherine Street, Sandton
Admission: Free, but viewing is by appointment only
Contact: For more information or to arrange a viewing, email art@sasol.com
The exhibition will feature a variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. It will also coincide with the regional submissions for this year’s competition on June 10 and 11, 2025, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with the artists and learn more about their creative processes.
