Javett-UP announces Top 10 Artists set to shine at the Tlhagella Exhibition!

The Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett-UP), with support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), is thrilled to announce the top ten artists selected for the career-changing  Tlhagella Incubation Programme. This initiative is designed to provide local visual artists with an incredible opportunity to develop their professional and entrepreneurial skills culminating in the showcasing of their work at a dedicated exhibition on 30 March 2025 at the Javett-UP. 

After a competitive selection process, ten talented artists have been chosen to participate in this next phase. In addition to exhibiting at the acclaimed Javett-UP, five of them will also have their artworks transformed into limited edition prints and merchandise, to ensure on-going income generation and self-sustainability.

The selected artists, a diverse and exciting mix of creatives working across various mediums, are:

Adalgisa Lizel Da Conceicao Mendes (fibre art & ceramics)

Aobakwe Matsepola (silkscreen printing & textile)

Joshua Maharaj (printmaking)

Joy Mwali (ceramic art)

Khumo Rasebitse (mixed media) 

Madalena Rebecca Alfonso (photography)

Naledi Shange (multidisciplinary)

Nomfundo Mohlala (ceramic sculpture & drawing)

Philadelphia Makwakwa (Photography)

Tsepiso Molaba (mixed media)

Tlhagella, which means “show up”, is a call to action for artists eager to step into the light and in need of a platform to do so. The programme invites visual artists in Gauteng, particularly in Tshwane and surrounding areas, to gain professional mentorship, hands-on experience, and exposure to the extensive network of art lovers, stakeholders and industry professionals connected to Javett-UP.

A Platform to Elevate Artistic Careers

The journey began in January with an open call for applications. Shortlisted candidates were invited to an intensive Professional Practice & Career Training Workshop on 7 February, led by respected art practitioners Leratorato Khuzwayo, Shenaz Mahomed, Kutlwano Munyai and Javett-UP’s own Puleng Plessie. With over 40 participants in attendance, the workshop provided insights into the business of art and career management, helping artists sharpen their professional edge. One of the topics covered in the workshop was how artists could refine their portfolios. Participants then had the opportunity to put their newly acquired skills into practice and apply for the exhibition phase. Finalists were then selected for the Tlhagella  Exhibition based on the strength of their portfolios.

Javett-UP Acting CEO, Jackie Rens, expressed excitement about the programme and the potential impact it will have on the artists’ careers.

“We are beyond excited to welcome these incredible artists into the final stage of the Tlhagella programme. This is a career-changing opportunity—offering mentorship, visibility, and direct access to industry professionals, buyers, and collectors. Bridging the gap between 'emerging' and 'professional' is exactly what we need to grow the sector and ensure that our art industry fully represents the true breadth of talent in our country—not just those with the resources to advance their careers. It’s about creating equal opportunities for remarkable artists who may not otherwise have access to such platforms and we are exceptionally grateful to the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives for making this possible.”

Don’t Miss the Exhibition – Discover & Collect Extraordinary Art!

The 30 March 2025 exhibition is not just about showcasing incredible talent—it’s an unmissable event for art lovers and collectors! Attendees will get an exclusive first look at the work of these rising stars in the art world and a chance to invest in their pieces before they take the art scene by storm.

Javett-UP is providing artists with logistical support, curatorial guidance, marketing materials, and a stipend to help cover their costs—ensuring they have everything they need to present their work at its best. This event is a chance to connect with artists, purchase unique pieces, and support the local art scene.

Admission is free! RSVP now on the link https://forms.gle/6Nvv9RCJXajNgXi68 or on connect@javettup.com

Join us in celebrating creativity, talent, and the future of South African art.

IMAGES: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17Oa5e-QtKlmrTokRFgA4_-uK9r5wWXRs?usp=sharing