Absa, in collaboration with the South African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA), announced the winners of the 2025 Absa L'Atelier on October 11, 2025, at Nirox Sculpture Park in Gauteng.
This year's theme, "Celebrating Expression," honors the narratives that shape Africa's creative scene. For nearly 40 years, the Absa L'Atelier has highlighted young, emerging artists who express resilience and hope through their work. Each year, four artists are recognized, including three Absa L'Atelier Ambassadors and a winner of the Gerard Sekoto Award, which celebrated its 21st anniversary in 2025.
This year's competition featured twelve finalists from various African countries, showcasing different themes like memory, mythology, sustainability, and identity. Ndlovukazi Ngilande, a South African painter and sculptor, won the 2025 Gerard Sekoto Award. Her art focuses on African women, blending traditional influences with contemporary perspectives on beauty and strength.
The 2025 Absa L'Atelier Ambassadors include Yolo Mantiyane, who uses cow dung in his artwork, and Trevor Aloka, who explores memory and storytelling through installations. The winners’ works reflect the rich stories and cultures of Africa.