7 Reasons Why Emerging Artists Should Enter South Africa’s Premier Visual Art Competition
Are you an aspiring visual artist looking to break into the South African art scene? The Sasol New Signatures Visual Art Competition 2025 could be your launchpad.
As South Africa’s longest-running and most prestigious visual art competition, Sasol New Signatures continues to champion emerging artists, offering them a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Open to all South African citizens aged 18 and over, this competition has been instrumental in unearthing and nurturing fresh talent since its inception.
Here’s why you should enter:
1. Inclusivity Without Limits
Sasol New Signatures embraces diversity. Any South African artist aged 18 or older can enter — with no upper age limit. Whether you’re self-taught, newly graduated, or changing careers, this is your space.
2. Freedom of Artistic Expression
You’re not boxed into one medium. Submit up to two original artworks in any form — be it painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, video, or installations. This flexibility reflects the competition’s commitment to the evolution of contemporary art.
3. A Rigorous but Fair Selection Process
Each submission undergoes detailed review at both regional and national levels by a respected panel of judges. This ensures a transparent selection process that values creativity, originality, and technical skill.
4. Unmatched National Exposure
Selected finalists’ works are exhibited at the Pretoria Art Museum, featured in a professionally curated catalogue, and showcased across Sasol New Signatures’ social media channels. This is your chance to reach galleries, collectors, and critics across the country.
5. Substantial Cash Prizes & Solo Exhibition
Your art could earn you more than admiration:
- 🥇 Winner: R100,000 + a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2026
- 🥈 Runner-up: R25,000
- 🏅 5 Merit Award Winners: R10,000 each
6. Powerful Marketing and PR Support
Winners benefit from wide-reaching national media coverage and a focused PR campaign that puts your name and your art in the spotlight.
7. Ongoing Mentorship & Industry Access
Winners receive invaluable mentorship from industry leaders such as Pfunzo Sidogi (Chairperson), Cate Terblanche (Sasol Art Curator), and the Association of Arts Pretoria. This professional guidance helps you navigate the business of art in South Africa and beyond.
🎨 Artwork Submission Dates for 2025
- Tuesday, 10 June & Wednesday, 11 June 2025
- Between 10:00 and 16:00
- Submit at one of eight official collection points nationwide
- Entry form required: Download here
💡 Pro Tips for Entrants
Maximise your chances of success by exploring the entry guidelines and resources on the official site:
👉 www.sasolsignatures.co.za
Sasol New Signatures 2025 isn’t just a competition — it’s a gateway to artistic recognition, professional support, and a long-term career in the visual arts.
This is your moment. Be bold. Be original. Be seen.
Enter the Sasol New Signatures 2025 competition and let your art speak.
