WORDS: PHAKAMA MBONAMBI PHOTOGRAPHER: PHILIPPA STRAVINO & ABSA ART GALLERY
ART 35
The Werksmans Attorneys Gallery in Sandton showcases the work of emerging African artists.
acknowledgement they deserve. A project like this benefits both corporates and artists,” she says. The gallery is open to the public, who can buy the art exhibited. Artists who’ve sold through the gallery include Dario Paulino Manjate, Solomon Omogboye, Danisile Njoli, Thabiso Dakamela, Conrad Bo, Anelle Steyn, Arlindo Maunde, Krisjan Rossouw, McCloud Simango, Vincent Osemwegie, Dbongz Mahlathi, Jemmiro, Abe Opperman and Mark Swart.
When it comes to choosing artists to exhibit, the gallery prefers new talent, regardless of artistic style or genre. “I prefer to work with South African emerging artists, rather than established ones. It’s a wonderful space to showcase talented artists on the journey to success,” says Rein. Interestingly, the space where
“MANY COLLEAGUES TALK ABOUT THE
ARTWORKS ON DISPLAY AND SHARE WHAT THEY LIKE AND, IN SOME CASES, DISLIKE. THE GALLERY DEFINITELY LEVERAGES THE SPACE AND GETS EVERYONE ENGAGED.”
Werskmans Art Gallery is located wasn’t originally intended as a gallery; the idea took root as the building was being constructed. “Originally, it was going to serve as a client reception area. But as the plans morphed and the building took shape, the high ceilings and very light, airy feel of the area lent itself to so much more,” says Candice de Bruin, Werksmans Head of Marketing & Business Development. “We also had a practical look at the space; it didn’t make sense for it to serve as a client reception area when all our meeting rooms were on the 11th
floor. Our interior designer
suggested we use it as an art space and the idea really took off from there. We haven’t looked back since.” The idea of the gallery also excites staff.
“Many colleagues talk about the artworks on display and share what they like. The gallery definitely leverages the space and gets everyone engaged,” says de Bruin. Most importantly, the curated space
boosts the firm’s public image. “The space in its current form is really the gem of the building. I, as well as many of our lawyers, frequently take clients to view the art. It brings a different and dynamic perspective to the business and resonates with both colleagues and clients,” says de Bruin. “Keeping the focus on aspiring South African and African artists says something about how we, as a law firm, are positioned and how we can provide a canvas for those who need it at little effort and expense to us, but with a real impact.” A percentage of the proceeds from art
sales goes into a trust to support other aspiring artists, says Rein.
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