Theme: FROM THE MARGINS TO THE CENTRE
Our theme seeks to recenter voices, narratives, and artistic practices that have historically existed outside dominant cultural spaces. We invite artists to challenge, disrupt, and reimagine the boundaries of visibility, power, access, and representation. This is an opportunity to illuminate stories that have shaped our communities from the edges—and bring them boldly into focus.
Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize provides the winning artist with:
• A 3-month furnished studio space at Ellis House Art Building in Johannesburg.
• A twelve-week studio residency in Johannesburg from 1 June – 31 August 2026.
• Mentorship from industry experts.
• Access to a curated program of workshops.
• A solo exhibition at Everard Read Gallery Johannesburg .
• A materials budget for art production while in residence.
• A monthly living stipend.
The artist is expected to:
• Attend bi-weekly meetings with the administrators of the Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize.
• Produce new and exciting works for a solo exhibition at the Everard Read gallery.
• Complete a written report on completion of the residency.
• Arrive on time and stay for the full period (12 weeks).
• Participated on workshops that will be coordinated for the residency.
• Work from the studio that will be provided.
• Attend events coordinated or suggested by the BNAP team.