AYANDA Gumede of Ayanda I Am Art Gallery is excited to announce the launch of South Africa’s first-ever mobile walk-in art gallery. She hopes that the gallery will make art accessible to children and adults in urban and rural communities, many of whom have never been in an art gallery before.

“I especially want to inspire children and young people to see art, not only as a hobby, but as something that can be their career path in the future,” she said.

The launch is aimed at offering an opportunity for the community to walk into the mobile art gallery to view an art exhibition, and will include live artist paintings, live music, live auction of art pieces, paint sessions, and face painting. With a lifelong passion for art, Gumede has successfully transformed her enthusiasm into a rewarding career spanning over 15 years as an art curator, consultant, artist mentor, artist, and manager.

Her journey is built on the belief that art has the power to connect, inspire, and drive change. Throughout this extensive career, Gumede has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed institutions, including Kizo Art Gallery, Red Art Gallery and Lee Art Gallery.

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“A pivotal experience for me was managing the celebrated artist, Wakaba Mutheki, often referred to as the African Van Gogh. This first-hand experience solidified a core philosophy that an artist’s success requires not just talent, but also the dedicated guidance, vision, and support of those who champion their work,” Gumede added.

She provides expert guidance, tailored support, and an online platform for artists to showcase their talents, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. She currently represents a diverse roster of talented artists from South Africa and neighbouring countries, including Arlindo Maunde, Ronald Moyo, Phindile Jamile, Mandy Jali, Xoli Mazibuko, Mbaliyethu Mabuza, Muzi Ndlela, and Sinalo Ntuli.

Gumede’s dedication to accessibility and innovation is exemplified by the launch of South Africa’s first ever mobile walk-in art gallery, which brings art directly to broader audiences and communities that have limited accessibility to an art gallery. The launch event will be at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday, November 30, from 12:00-17:00.

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