August House in downtown Joburg is more than just a beautiful 1940s art deco landmark that pays homage to the city’s industrial past; it’s a home for artists who are empowered to live their passion in an inspired space that not only nurtures their artistic vision, but their livelihood too, by connecting them to fresh audiences of buyers in dynamic new ways. We chat to Dr Paul Bayliss, a specialist curator at August House.
August house is a vibrant hub that bursts with creative innovation, feeding off the energy of its edgy inner-city locale, houses some of South Africa’s top artists, including Sam Nhlengethwa, Colbert Mashile, Senzo Shabangu, Lehlogonolo Mashaba, Nelson Makamo, Diane Victor, Mary Sibande and Motsamai Thabane.
August House has a variety of talented artists that work across different media and portray different images in their work based on their experience, from established international stars to those still building their brand and entrenching themselves into the local industry.
My involvement with August House and the artists therein forms part of my personal citizenship approach in supporting young and emerging artists. Simultaneously, this provides an opportunity to help those interested in investing in South African artists through specialist guidance and consultation. My goal is to assist the younger generation of artists therein to build their careers both locally and abroad. One way of doing this is to introduce buyers directly with the artists – allowing them to meet and interact with the artists in there studio’s. This also provides an opportunity to offer guidance to those interested in investing in South African artists.
African contemporary art is often overlooked and under-rated; it blends the past with the present in a fascinating dialogue of the artists present perspective while evoking a rich cultural past.
I am inspired by dedication, passion and raw talent.
The best way to select art for your home is by purchasing what emotionally speaks to you.
An avid art collector should do their homework, not purchase on impulse and have a collecting strategy.
Sustainable support for South African talent involves acknowledging and supporting our home grown talent.
Dr Paul Bayliss
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