Artist Proof Studio (APS) makes its debut at the KZN Art Fair from 6–9 August 2026, presenting a curated exhibition that celebrates 35 years of collaboration, experimentation and excellence in South African printmaking.
WORDS Palesa Mohola PHOTOS Supplied
Artist Proof Studio is one of South Africa’s leading centres for printmaking, combining professional printmaking facilities with an internationally recognised educational programme. For 35 years, APS has played a pivotal role in developing generations of South African artists while promoting printmaking as a powerful and accessible contemporary art form.
“Our exhibition in KwaZulu-Natal earlier this year was an encouraging experience, and returning for the KZN Art Fair allows us to continue those conversations. We are excited to share the breadth of South African printmaking while learning more about how collectors and audiences in the region engage with the work,” says Nathi Simelane, APS Chief Operating Officer.
Established in 1991 by Kim Berman and the late Nhlanhla Xaba, the renowned Johannesburg-based printmaking centre features the work of 22 artists in a display centred around dialogue. The display includes works by different generations of artists, creating conversations about the different techniques and evolving approaches to printmaking – from archive prints by celebrated South African artists to newly released editions by emerging voices redefining the medium – all to be seen at the annual Hilton Arts Festival.
“Printmaking offers remarkable diversity – not only in artistic expression but also in technique, scale and accessibility. We want visitors to discover work that surprises them and artists they may encounter for the first time, while recognising many of the established names that have shaped South African contemporary art,” says Simelane.
This exhibition is set to reveal an unexpected combination of techniques – including lithography and screen printing — as well as varying scales and materials, demonstrating how printmaking continues to expand beyond its traditional boundaries and highlighting its enduring relevance within South Africa’s visual arts landscape.
Featured artists include
Bambo Sibiya • Cassius Khumalo • Jan Tshikhuthula • Kagiso Diale • Kim Berman • Lebohang Motaung • Lehlogonolo Masoabi • Mashir Kresenshun • Mary Sibande • Moloko Mabota • Mongezi Ncaphayi • Nathi Ndlandla • Nelson Makamo • Norman Catherine • Phillemon Hlungwani • Ramarutha Makoba • Raymond Fuyana • Sue Martin • Thabang Lehobye • Themba Khumalo • Walter Oltmann • William Kentridge
The collaboration between The Hilton Arts Festival, a mosaic of experiences with over 25 000 visitors and a platform for both established and emerging talent; the inaugural KZN Art Fair, which aims to create new opportunities for artists, galleries, designers and collectors; and APS, which has a long-standing commitment to nurturing artistic talent and advancing printmaking as one of the country’s most dynamic creative disciplines, promises long-lasting relationships with collectors, galleries and audiences in the region.
Visitors will not only see beautiful artworks, but will also learn more about the Studio’s internationally respected training programme, which has produced generations of leading South African artists. artistproofstudio.co.za | kznartfair.com
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