RMB Latitudes art experience
The much anticipated event on the art calendar, Art Africa who partnered with the South African RMB Latitudes art fair in Johannesburg was from the 26th until the 28th May 2023.
The magnificent experience brought together exhibitors and artists from across the African continent who transformed the autumn three-acre property of Shepstone Gardens into a curated celebration of art. This was coupled with quality wines from various wine estates around the country.
In 2022 the event welcomed more than 2100 people to OpenStudios.Joburg. The event gave visitors access to more than 100 working artists , in their natural habitat – the studio space.
The collaboration between international artists, curators, academics and local community organisations was enjoyed by many members of the diplomatic community as well as people from across Gauteng.
The innovative new indoor/outdoor art experience focused on a curatorial theme of co-emergence. “ In the context of African art, co-emergence refers to the complexities embedded in the interaction of various cultural and aesthetic influences on the creation and interpretation of African art “, says Latitudes Special projects Curator, Nkhensani Mkhari.
RMB chose to partner with Latitudes because they both share a belief in Africa’s vibrant and resourceful economy. Latitudes launched a physical art fair in 2019, and have over time become an integral player in the African Art Industry. The all-women team runs a physical art fair, online marketplace and a series of mentorship programs.
We were shuttled from the Old Edwardian Society in Houghton by the fair’s exclusive partner, Lexus to Shepstone gardens. From there guests were where taken by bus to various galleries around the city where we could admire the art and interact with the artists. With some much to see we were spoilt for choice.
The day ended at Shepstone Gardens with the sun setting over the bare trees, creating the perfect ambience.
The universal language of art was enjoyed by both collectors, browsers and investors at the destination event.
by Marion Kate
