As the 1990s dawned, South Africa was in a volatile and explosive situation. Apartheid was breaking down after years of institutionalised racial inequality, and violent conflict was raging. It was against this background that industry stalwarts and printmakers Kim Berman and the late Nhlanhla Xaba founded the Artist Proof Studio.
It was to become a space that would embody the spirit of a democratic South Africa — created when non-racial ideals, unity and inclusivity were needed most. Printmaking could be used as a powerful tool of expression and social change.
The Artist Proof Studio (APS) was, and still is, a ground-breaking community centre involved with all aspects of professional printmaking. Some 33 years later, on a weekday morning, you’ll find students enthusiastically presenting their latest work, gallery staff setting up an exhibition and top artists ready to create magic.
The APS is an incubator of creativity, an essential space that needs to be preserved and supported.
For artists, printmaking — which includes the fine-art printing methods of etching, relief printing, screen printing or lithography — offers a unique way to create multiple original artworks while exploring varied techniques.
A critical part of the APS is their printmaking school, which offers a structured three-year full-time programme designed for passionate, aspiring artists. Reneilwe Mathibe, communications and development manager at the APS, explains why this intensive practical course is invaluable. “It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of various printmaking techniques.
“They gain hands-on experience, mentorship from established artists, and the opportunity to exhibit their work, which helps them build a professional portfolio and network within the art community.”
The APS offers financial aid and scholarships to ensure accessibility for all students.
Today there are a glut of leading artists who’ve been through the APS system. Take Nelson Makamo. His work is known globally and has been featured on the cover of Time magazine. Likewise, Bambo Sibiya, who recently had a solo show at Everard Read, and Phillemon Hlungwani, one of the most accomplished contemporary artists working in South Africa today, who has an upcoming Everard Read solo show too.
Other APS alumni include DuduBloom More, Gildo Soares and Thokozani Madonsela.
A more recent graduate going from strength to strength is Lebohang Motaung. She uses hair as a medium to explore identity, culture, and social issues. Her work has been showcased locally and internationally, and she has exhibited at both the Investec Cape Town Art Fair and FNB Art Joburg. She had her first solo show at Lizamore & Associates in 2023. Her work was recently selected to represent South Africa at the Ekhaya Pavilion at the Paris Olympics.
After completing her B Tech degree in fine arts at the Vaal University of Technology, Motaung attended the course at APS. She had fallen in love with printing while doing her degree and wanted to further her skills. During her second semester at APS, Motaung was chosen to take up a residency at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. It was there that she found herself and got to experiment and learn. “It was incredibly important for me that the Artist Proof Studio was able to send me to America, where I realised that I wanted to be a full time artist,” she says.
Her time at the APS shaped her as an artist. “It was so important for me to go there because the APS is about the practical side of art; they introduced us to the business of art and would take us to different art exhibitions, where we were exposed to real exhibitions and real artists.”
Another vital part of the APS is their Professional Print Studio (Pro-Studio). This income generating unit enables artists to collaborate with a highly skilled team of print technicians and master printers. Over the years, many of South Africa’s foremost print artists have collaborated in the studio. They include Diane Victor, Walter Oltmann and William Kentridge, who’s also been involved with funding students with sales of his work.
Award-winning artist Mary Sibande is another powerhouse who’s collaborated with the Pro-Studio. For Sibande, working with the APS has been an enriching experience. “The environment is welcoming and the master printers aren’t only skilled but incredibly attentive to detail. Their ability to push the image along with the artist is a remarkable trait that elevates the entire process. I’ve been eager to print with them for years. Now that I finally have the time, the results are magical. I’m looking forward to more creative collaborations,” she says.
“The APS is a cornerstone of the Joburg artistic community. It plays a critical role in nurturing emerging talent, providing education, resources and opportunities for artists to develop their skills and careers. The APS is also a hub for artistic collaboration and innovation, fostering a sense of community among artists and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Joburg.”
If you’re interested in buying an artwork, the Artist Proof Studio Gallery, a dynamic blend of online and physical space, is a must see. A staggering 80% of prints are made by APS graduates and alumni. The remaining 20% are a result of collabs with the Pro-Studio. And if you’re keen to invest in an artist on the rise, Mathibe suggests Bekezela Mabena, David Madlabane and Lindo Zwane.
You never know who’s the next Nelson Makamo in training.
Catch the last day of FNB Art Joburg at the Sandton Convention Centre where the Artist Proof Studio will be exhibiting. Artists whose works will be on sale include Mary Sibande, Mongezi Ncaphayi, Nelson Makamo and William Kentridge, as well as many emerging talents. Or visit the Artist Proof Studio’s gallery, 1st Floor, Harrow Court 1, Isle of Houghton, Boundary Rd, Houghton Estate, or buy their art online here
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