Emerging Artists Invited to Enter the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Art Competition
Emerging Entries are officially open for the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition, South Africa’s leading platform for identifying and promoting the next generation of visual artists. Now in its 35th year of sponsorship by Sasol, the competition continues to be a prestigious launchpad for emerging creative voices, offering them an opportunity to break into the professional art world. Over the decades, this initiative has transformed into more than just a contest; it is now a celebration of innovation, storytelling, and the deep emotional and intellectual resonance that visual art can offer.
Emerging Administered under the watchful eye of the Association of Arts Pretoria, the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition has earned a reputation for changing lives. Many who have taken part in this journey—whether as winners, runners-up, or merit award recipients—have gone on to enjoy national and international acclaim. Their works have been featured in prominent art galleries, exhibitions, and biennales around the globe. Noteworthy alumni include Candice Breitz, who received a merit award in 1991; Johan Thom, honored with the Judge’s Award in 2001; and Mohau Modisakeng, the 2011 overall winner. Haroon Gunn-Salie (Merit 2013), Lebohang Kganye (Winner 2017), and Patrick Rulore (Winner 2019) also stand out as shining examples of the competition’s long-standing impact.
Emerging Speaking on the reopening of entries, Chairperson Pfunzo Sidogi emphasized the inclusive and accessible nature of the competition. “We are thrilled to once again call on South Africa’s talented emerging artists to participate in this transformative experience,” Sidogi remarked. “Thanks to our dedicated sponsor Sasol and our logistical partner Stuttaford Van Lines, there is no cost to enter, allowing anyone who qualifies to submit their work. We strive to maintain artistic integrity while encouraging bold, original ideas that provoke thought, emotion, and conversation.”
Emerging The 2025 competition remains open to South African citizens and residents aged 18 and over who have not previously held a solo exhibition, with the exception of academic displays such as those required for a Master’s degree. The contest welcomes a wide spectrum of visual mediums, including—but not limited to—traditional painting and drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, digital media, video, and installation art. However, artists currently represented by established galleries or agents, or employed full-time as lecturers in the visual arts or design field, are not eligible to participate.
This year, the rewards are as compelling as ever. The overall winner will receive a cash prize of R100,000 and the chance to mount a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2026—a monumental milestone in any artist’s career. The runner-up will be awarded R25,000, while five additional artists will each earn a R10,000 merit award.
Emerging According to Nozipho Mbatha, Sasol’s Senior Manager for Group Brand and Sponsorships, this long-standing partnership is deeply aligned with the company’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering innovation. “Sasol New Signatures is more than an art competition. It’s a dynamic space where artistic potential is recognized, nurtured, and celebrated,” Mbatha stated. “Over the last 35 years, we’ve witnessed how this platform can change lives, ignite careers, and contribute to the cultural fabric of our nation.”
In an effort to support artists through the submission process and beyond, Sasol New Signatures is once again rolling out a comprehensive educational campaign. Spearheaded by Chairperson Pfunzo Sidogi and Sasol Art Curator Cate Terblanche, this initiative includes a wide range of resources aimed at demystifying the competition process. From online information sessions and practical how-to tutorials to downloadable fact sheets and an insightful blog, the tools provided are designed to educate and empower.
Terblanche emphasized the importance of accessibility and excellence: “We believe that art should be inclusive, and that education plays a key role in achieving that goal. Through our website and digital platforms, we are offering artists the guidance they need to submit technically and conceptually strong work. The Sasol New Signatures site is a goldmine of knowledge, featuring past catalogues, interviews with previous finalists, and detailed submission guidelines.”
For those planning to enter, it’s crucial to note the following key dates: Artwork submissions must be made in person at one of eight designated collection points across South Africa. Submission dates are set for Tuesday, 10 June and Wednesday, 11 June 2025, between the hours of 10:00 and 16:00. Final judging will take place on Monday, 4 August 2025, and the much-anticipated 2025 exhibition will be held at the Pretoria Art Museum, opening on Thursday, 4 September and running through Sunday, 2 November 2025.
The exhibition will not only feature the work of the 2025 finalists but also spotlight a solo exhibition by 2024 winner Miné Kleynhans. This will be a unique opportunity for art lovers and aspiring artists alike to witness the evolution of an artist following their victory in the competition.
Sidogi concluded with an inspiring reminder: “Being selected as a finalist in the Sasol New Signatures competition is often the beginning of something extraordinary. It offers a platform for emerging artists to be seen, to have their voices heard, and to contribute to the rich, evolving narrative of South African art.”
As the 2025 competition opens its doors, emerging artists across South Africa are encouraged to seize this moment. Whether you’re experimenting with new techniques or perfecting traditional methods, whether your art tells personal stories or confronts societal issues—this is your chance to step into the spotlight.
