The much-anticipated Absa L’Atelier Awards 2023 took place on Thursday evening, 12 October at The Galleria, in Sandton, Johannesburg. The event was a successful celebration of African artistic excellence, showcasing the works of talented individuals who have left an indelible mark on the creative landscape.
The Absa L’Atelier Awards reflect a commitment to fostering artistic expression and contributing to the cultural richness of the continent. The Absa L’Atelier, which is open to individuals between the ages of 21 and 40, embodies Absa’s dedication to assisting young artists on their journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. The adjudicators were carefully picked from various countries across the globe, such as South Africa, Italy, France, USA, Ghana, and Tanzania. To start the evening, the much-anticipated announcement of the Gerard Sekoto Award winner took center stage. The Gerard Sekoto Award is an art prize named in honour of the prominent South African artist Gerard Sekoto, recognised for his influential contributions to modern art and depictions of urban life and the challenges faced by black South Africans. Administered by the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS), in partnership with Absa and the South African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA), the Award seeks to foster and endorse contemporary South African art and nurtures cross-cultural connection through a prestigious residency in Paris. Typically awarded to young artists, aged 25 to 35 years of age, demonstrating exceptional talent and innovation, it serves as a platform for the promotion and support of artistic endeavours in the country. As the audience held its collective breath, the proudly South African Bulumko Mbete echoed through the room, ushering in a moment of celebration and recognition.
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