Best Black-Owned Art Galleries in South Africa
by Chantelle Matawu
The world of art has always been deemed an adequate avenue used for self-expression and even a form of representation of culture.
In a country rich with diversity, such as South Africa, more galleries have emerged that play an imperative role in showcasing local and even international artists’ works that often project African culture.
Many black-owned art galleries have emerged on the scene to offer many artists the necessary exposure to fill in gaps in the world of art.
1. Sosesame Gallery
Based in Melville, a suburb in Johannesburg, the art gallery is regarded as the “brainchild” of art historian Dr. Same Ndluli and Naomi Menyoko as well as well-renowned artist Johannes Phukela. It opened in April 2016 and provides an adequate platform for young and under-exposed artists. With the social atmosphere constantly changing along with the political and economic issues on the rise, it’s crucial to have more artists willing to showcase these issues that are often ignored. Sosesame Gallery provides a space for artists willing to push boundaries in their art and also showcases works of well-established artists, and provides mentorship programs.
2. Gallery Momo
Based in Johannesburg and Cape Town, this gallery was founded in 2002 by art dealer and collector Morina Mokoena. It is a well-established art gallery that showcases a range of local, continental, and international contemporary artists. Being one of the few black-owned galleries in South Africa, through the years it gained quite a reputation for discovering new African and international talent and participates in art fairs in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and London.
3. StopSign Art Gallery
This art gallery is based in Maboneng, right in the centre of Johannesburg’s art scene, and is owned by Zama Phakathi, a curator. It hosts informative exhibitions that show upcoming and local artists. The gallery has become a hub for undiscovered creative youths and offers affordable art for art lovers with a deep appreciation for it who yearn to possess it in their homes.
4. MAP Contemporary Art Gallery
Located in Melville, the gallery is owned by Naomi Menyoko who has a history of working in the arts. The gallery showcases works from well-established artists and new, unknown artists.
5. Sibisi Gallery
The gallery was opened by Thandi Sibisi who became the first black woman in South Africa to entirely own an art gallery. Focused entirely on African art, it aims to bring more Black creators into a white-dominated field. It works with new talent and aspires to promote the importance of traditional art.