Emerging visual artists took centre stage at the Bramley-based Dramatic, Artistic and Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO) Gallery as 10 finalists were honoured at the 2026 Visual Arts Merit Award (VAMA) top ten group exhibition.

Titled What Earth Keeps, What Remains and What We Carry, the exhibition brought together the work of 10 artists selected for their artistic merit, originality and ability to fulfil the objectives of the award.

The exhibition, presented by DALRO, in partnership with Bag Factory Artists’ Studios, LL Editions and William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG), provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work while taking important steps in their professional development. Curated by Maria Fidel Regueros, of Bag Factory Artists’ Studios, the exhibition offers visitors and collectors an opportunity to discover and purchase work by the selected artists.

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Jason Langa was announced as the 2026 VAMA winner, while Thinasofaslahlane Mkhulise was named runner-up. The other finalists were Alexander Appolis, Bongolethu Mvinjelwa, Daniel Retief, Lesedi Ramushu, Phumelele Kunene, Thobile Mavuso, Tlotlo Mothwane and Ukhona Mthethwa.

All 10 finalists will participate in professional development workshops covering artistic identity, exhibition preparation, pricing, financial management, copyright, contracts, marketing, funding applications and well-being, as part of VAMA’s mission to help artists build sustainable creative careers.

The programme also offers opportunities for visual artists outside the top ten to participate in the workshops, either in person or through livestream access.

The award winner will undertake a residency at Bag Factory from November to April 2027, followed by a printmaking residency at LL Editions from May 2027 to September 2027. This will culminate in a solo exhibition at Bag Factory in October 2027.

The runner-up will undertake a residency at William Humphreys Art Gallery in Kimberley from January 2027 to March 2027, followed by a solo exhibition at the gallery during March and April.

Established in 2024, VAMA aims to support emerging and developing South African visual artists by creating opportunities to exhibit, strengthen their professional skills and develop their artistic practices.

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The public can visit What Earth Keeps, What Remains and What We Carry at DALRO Gallery, Building 1, Waverley Office Park, 15 Forest Road, Bramley, until December 11.

Public viewing hours are Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 16:30, and Saturdays from 10:00 to 13:00. Extended viewing hours will apply on December 3, when the gallery will be open until 20:00.

Artworks are also available for purchase online at dalro.co.za/VAMA.

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