The Arts Company Soweto (TACS) invited 25 artists to participate in a Print Portfolio Exchange Art Fair held November 6, 2021 at 120 Main Reef Road, Benrose, Johannesburg.
An art exhibition of print artwork addressing a common theme; that carries an exceptional experience of art makers coming together to share and exchange their body of work to increase their collection and assist with the financial hit artists faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As the first black-owned art printing company in SA – When we conceptualised this exhibition it was all about the artists than it was about us. It’s main purpose was to help the artists sell more art piece so they can create a living, establish an environment where artists support each other through exchanging the body of work. Which is something that’s unheard of where artists gift each other work to support the creative industry and artists” – Molefe Thwala
The portfolio exchange creatives came from different backgrounds such as sculpture, multimedia, painters and non-printmakers who have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get their work displayed in public and private spaces globally.
Participating artists include: Zandile Tshabalala, Zanele Mashinini, Vivian Kohler, Thokozani Madonsela, Baba Tjeko, Themba Khumalo, Thabo Motseki, Thabang Lehobye, Tebogo Moerane, Sindiso Zwane, Senzo Shabangu, Phumzile Buthelezi, Philip Mabote, Paul Molete, Thea Castro, Nkhensani Rihlampfu, Molefe Thwala, Mbali Tshabalala, Mariapaola McGurk, Lloyd Maluleke, Lerato Motau, Lehlohonolo Dhlamini, Lehlogonolo Mashaba, Jan Tshikuthula and Hiten Bawa
Under this call artist were given a few months of preparation during 2020/2021 producing artworks as a direct response to certain issues around the global pandemic and how it affected the arts space and each of the artist. In its fullness the storytelling translation into artwork offers hope to the consumers & buyers of the work.
The Portfolio Exchange is an archival process that not only includes the production of the prints but also incorporates a collection essays from various writers. TACS is also in the process of creating a publication to document the entire process and further engage the idea of creating an artistic legacy beyond the pandemic.
