For five vibrant days in May, Artist Proof Studio returned to Shepstone Gardens to take part in the RMB Latitudes Art Fair. From the early preview on 21 May through to the public weekend showing, our time at the fair went beyond exhibiting artworks. It was a chance to connect with audiences, share the stories behind the prints, and welcome more people into the APS printmaking community.
A Two-Part Showcase
The week opened with a collector-focused presentation featuring Mary Sibande, William Kentridge, Sue Martin, Phillemon Hlungwani, Lazi Mathebula, Lebohang Motaung, Minenkulu Ngoyi, Nathi Ndlandla, Richard Ndimande, and Sizwe Khoza. These works combined visual storytelling with skilled print techniques, drawing in early collectors and industry supporters.
From Friday through the weekend, our booth shifted into a dynamic salon-style display. This broader curation featured Bheki Sibiya, Mbongeni Buthelezi, George Mokwena, Nkosana Nhlapo, Jason Langa, Ramarutha Makoba, Kagiso Diale, Raymond Fuyana, Kudzanai Chiurai, Reneilwe Mathibe, Lebohang Motaung, Themba Khumalo, Lesedi Ramushu, Thokozani Madonsela, Lungile Ngcobo and Walter Oltmann. It was an open invitation for discovery, offering works at a wide range of price points.
Celebrating Talent and Legacy
We were proud to see APS alumni, Jason Langa, Khumo Ramaila and Sandile Ndabukelwayo represented in the Talent Unlocked showcase and at other booths across the fair. Their presence reinforced the value of long-term support, mentorship, and professional development, core to the work we do at the studio.
Prints That Sparked Excitement
A number of editions caught the attention of visitors and sparked conversation within our booth. These included works by William Kentridge, David Tsoka, Reneilwe Mathibe, George Mokwena and Bheki Sibiya. Their work resonated deeply with audiences and contributed to meaningful sales and engagement.
Some of our featured artists and happy clients who bought from our browser editions
Extending APS's Presence
APS's engagement stretched beyond the fairgrounds. Gallery Manager Reneilwe Mathibe joined national radio and television broadcasts including SAfm, Smile FM, SABC Channel Africa, and SABC News Live. She spoke about the studio’s focus on digital sales, growing international interest, and how printmaking is a sustainable model for creative education. APS also received a mention on 702 by Gail Bosch, helping to shine a light on our ongoing mission.
Leading up to the fair, we hosted a ticket giveaway on Instagram, first offering Saturday passes and then, due to high demand, surprising our followers with another set of Sunday tickets after the event sold out. It was a simple way to thank our supporters and open access to new audiences.
Growing Our Community
Throughout the event, we invited guests to learn more about our Patron Programme. Limited-edition prints like William Kentridge’s In Defence of Optimism were made available, with proceeds supporting the APS education programme. The programme was recently relaunched and further highlighted in a special event and student-led video, available to view on our blog [insert link].
If you missed the fair or would like to revisit any of the work, the full catalogue is available online, along with a curated online collection of prints for sale.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, we look forward to sharing more in the months ahead.
