The serene surroundings of Nirox Sculpture Park in Kromdraai, Krugersdorp, will transform into a vibrant hub where food, fashion, music, and art gracefully converge.
On Saturday, the second edition of the highly anticipated BMW Art Generation will showcase a diverse array of talent, headlined by the multi-award-winning artist Thandiswa Mazwai, alongside the South African Music Award-nominated Kujenga and the captivating sounds of Kopano Jazz Collective.
The event promises not only a feast for the ears but also a rich intellectual engagement for art enthusiasts.
Kicking off the proceedings will be a thought-provoking conversation featuring two formidable figures in contemporary painting: Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi and Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi.
This exchange, moderated by Janine Gaëlle Dieudji from the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, aims to illuminate the intersections of art, culture, and society.
Attendees can also indulge their taste buds with a selection of culinary offerings from renowned vendors including Lara the Food Goddess, Lucky Bread, Jack Rabbit, and Forest Gelato.
Meanwhile, fashion lovers will delight in curated collections from South African designers such as Boyde, Viviers, Nao Serati, and Uni Form by Luke Radloff, enhancing the overall experience of luxury and craftsmanship that BMW Art Generation aspires to present.
Designed as a premier arts and lifestyle event, the BMW Art Generation will engage attendees in an array of activities from art walkabouts and studio visits to live music performances.
With its diverse programme, it not only enriches the cultural fabric of South Africa but also establishes the country as a beacon of lifestyle excellence on the African continent.
Taz Ramphisa, BMW’s general manager, expressed enthusiasm for this year’s event, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting art education and fostering creativity.
“As part of our long-term dedication to art education, BMW will continue to play a pivotal role in promoting and fostering creativity and innovation for future generations,” he stated, further noting that the Art Generation serves as a vital platform for knowledge exchange among artists, collectors, and cultural practitioners.
In 2020, BMW Group South Africa collaborated with FNB Art Joburg to launch the BMW Young Collectors Co., aimed at nurturing a new generation of art enthusiasts committed to collecting African art.
With exclusive opportunities for budding collectors to engage with contemporary African art leaders, this initiative has grown into one of the most sought-after memberships.
Mandla Sibeko, managing director of FNB Art Joburg, articulated the importance of such patronage, stating: “We are privileged to benefit from (BMW’s) support, which not only enhances our initiatives but also strengthens the social fabric we need to foster a rich exchange.”
The Star
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za