Zimbabwean artist Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude has been named the winner of the 2024 FNB Art Prize.
For the past 14 years, the organisation has supported African artists to grow the continent’s cultural offering in ways that go beyond the fair.
Nyaude impressed the jury panel of Kim Kandan (fair manager, FNB Art Joburg representative), Lezanne Viviers (collector, creative director, founder of Viviers) and Mfundi Vundla (collector, veteran film, and television producer).
“There is a compelling balance between hope and political resistance in Gresham’s work. His adept use of satire allows him to navigate and illuminate complex, often contentious, topics with a nuanced approach that invites viewers to engage critically.
“Additionally, his commitment to the medium is evident in his technique and his sophisticated use of colour. This control over brushwork not only showcases his technical skills but also enhances the expressive power of his work,” said the jury.
Nyaude joins previous winners Lindokuhle Sobekwa, Dada Khanyisa, Wycliffe Mundopa, Lady Skollie, Bronwyn Katz, Haroon Gunn-Salie, Peju Alatise, Nolan Oswald Dennis, Turiya Magadlela, Portia Zvavahera, Nelisiwe Xaba, Mocke J van Veuren, Kudzanai Chiurai, and Cedric Nunn.
He thanked the organisation for the opportunity and First Floor Gallery Harare for supporting his craft.
Besides winning the cash prize, Nyaude will host a solo exhibition at the Johannesburg Art Gallery.