uMsizi noPende hosts another succesful competition
The annual competition gives emerging artists a chance at a professional career.
The fourth annual uMsizi noPende Visual Art Project launched another exhibition at the Springs Art Gallery recently.
The competition invites Gauteng and Mpumalanga artists to submit their work for the chance of a cash prize and exhibition of their artwork.
The 2025 edition invited artists to explore the theme ‘Exploration of dreams, aspirations, and innovation as a catalyst for change’, and the reception was astounding. The competition received 254 entries, from which an independent panel selected 27 finalists.
The Isthuli-Sasengweni Arts and Craft Organisation’s communications officer, Thamsanga Mfuphi, says the project represents a powerful blend of artistic excellence, innovation and economic growth, providing hope and meaningful opportunities for visual artists while driving positive change in the cultural sector.
The organisation thanks the National Arts Council of South Africa.
“The success of Umsizi NoPende is made possible by the support of the NAC, highlighting the vital role of public funding in sustaining the arts in SA.”
The winners of the competition:
• Bonze – Ngoma Ka Mphahlele for his photographic artwork titled Ukuzalwa Kabusha/In Waiting.
• Silver – Vanessa Thembane for her mixed media collage titled A dança da água.
• The Public Voters’ Choice Prize (voted by the public) – James Ndlovu, whose painting titled Vutomi Bya Phalaphala had over 1 585 votes.
• Gold – Wasani Manyisi with his diptych (a painting, especially on two hinged wooden panels that can close like a book) artwork titled Alone in my Mind/Power Imbalance.
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