Founded in 1991 by Tamarind Institute-trained master printer Mark Attwood, The Artists' Press has spent 35 years perfecting the delicate art of lithography, first in Newtown and now from their off-grid studio in Mpumalanga. They've collaborated with over 130 artists, and their prints hang in the Smithsonian, Tate Modern and the Met. Not too shabby considering their first artist, Norman Catherine, had to pay in advance so that they could buy paper for the edition.
On Fri, Nov 28 at 18:00 the weekend kicks off with the launch of new limited edition lithographs by Sam Nhlengethwa and Walter Oltmann, two artists who have long been close collaborators with the studio. Nhlengethwa will be mastering the music for the evening with a selection of jazz records. His sets are almost as good as his art so you don't want to miss it.
On Sat, Nov 29 from 09:00 to 16:00, The Atrium at Keyes Art Mile transforms into a one-day-only print fair featuring works by more than 40 artists including Penny Siopis, Judith Mason, Banele Khoza, Nandipha Mntambo, and Deborah Bell. Limited editions will be available at accessible prices which makes it a great opportunity to grow your collection, pick up a gift or finally get that artwork you've been eyeing. At 11:00, Mark Attwood will be in conversation with artists Banele Khoza and Katlego Tlabela about printmaking, collaboration, and what fine art printing means in South Africa today. It's free, open to everyone, and you'll no doubt leave with fresh perspectives on printmaking and art in South Africa.
Last but not least, Simon Attwood will be giving away a limited edition of 35 prints created specifically for the pop-up. Stay tuned to our Instagram as well as The Artists' Press and Keyes Art Mile for more details on how to win.
The pop-up offers a special chance to own museum-quality prints at accessible prices. These aren't reproductions – they're original artworks created using hand-printing techniques that date back to 1796, made with archival materials built to last generations, this weekend puts 35 years of South African art history within reach.
The Artists' Press 35th Anniversary Pop-Up takes place Fri, Nov 28 at 18:00 and Sat, Nov 29 from 09:00-16:00 (artist talk at 11:00) in The Atrium at Keyes Art Mile, Rosebank. Admission is free. More info at @the_artists_press on Instagram.
