Entries are now officially open for the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition, South Africa’s premier platform for emerging visual artists. Now in its 35th year of Sasol’s sponsorship, Sasol New Signatures remains a prestigious launchpad for artistic careers—a celebration of bold ideas and a testament to the power of visual storytelling to inspire, challenge, and connect.
Under the custodianship of the Association of Arts Pretoria, Sasol New Signatures boasts a proud legacy of discovering and supporting some of South Africa’s most respected contemporary artists. Many past winners and finalists have established themselves nationally and internationally, showcasing their work in leading galleries, museums, and biennales.
Notable alumni include:
- Candice Breitz (Merit, 1991)
- Johan Thom (Judge’s Award, 2001)
- Mohau Modisakeng (Winner, 2011)
- Haroon Gunn-Salie (Merit, 2013)
- Lebohang Kganye (Winner, 2017)
- Patrick Rulore (Winner, 2019)
“We are delighted to once again open the call for entries to South Africa’s longest-running and respected art competition,” said Pfunzo Sidogi, Chairperson of Sasol New Signatures. “Thanks to Sasol and our logistical partner, Stuttaford Van Lines, the competition is free to enter—making it one of the most accessible high-profile competitions in the country. We are looking for original work, bold in vision and capable of sparking thought and emotion.”
Who Can Enter:
The competition is open to all South African artists aged 18 and older who have not yet held a solo exhibition—excluding academic exhibitions such as a Master’s showcase. Artists working in all visual media (painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, video, installation, etc.) are encouraged to enter. However, artists represented by established galleries, agents, or employed full-time as lecturers in visual art or design are not eligible.
Competition Prizes:
- Overall Winner: R100 000 and a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2026
- Runner-up: R25 000
- Five Merit Awards: R10 000 each
“Sasol is proud to continue our 35-year journey with this competition as it aligns closely with our commitment to nurturing South African creativity and innovation,” said Nozipho Mbatha, Sasol Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorships. “This competition is more than just an art contest—it’s a platform where potential is recognised, dreams are launched, and new chapters in South African art are written.”
Educational Support:
To guide emerging artists, Sasol New Signatures offers a range of educational tools:
- Online Information Sessions
- How-to Tutorials
- Downloadable Fact Sheets
- Insightful Blog Content
This year’s educational campaign will be led by Chairperson Pfunzo Sidogi and Cate Terblanche, Sasol Art Curator. “Our goal is to keep the competition inclusive and educational while maintaining high standards,” said Terblanche. “The Sasol New Signatures website is a treasure trove of resources—from past catalogues and finalist interviews to entry guidelines.”
Key Dates:
- Artwork Submission:
In person at one of eight collection points nationwide
Tuesday, 10 & Wednesday, 11 June 2025 | 10h00 – 16h00 - Final Judging:
Monday, 4 August 2025 - Exhibition Opening:
Thursday, 4 September to Sunday, 2 November 2025
Pretoria Art Museum
The exhibition will feature the 2025 finalists and a solo presentation by 2024 winner Miné Kleynhans, showcasing a new body of work developed since her win. “Being selected as a finalist can be a turning point in an artist’s career,” said Sidogi. “It’s a chance to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”
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