ARTdacity

In this deeply moving episode, Jo-Ann Strauss reunites with the man who first opened her eyes to the world of art. Philip Boyd, a towering figure in South African ballet, reflects on a career that spans the prestigious stages of CAPAB to the classrooms of Gugulethu. He recounts his transition from being a principal dancer performing roles like Albrecht in Giselle to becoming a mentor who brought "Ballet for All" to the townships during the height of Apartheid.

Jo-Ann Strauss hosts a landmark celebration at the iconic "Pink Lady" of Cape Town—the Belmond Mount Nelson—to launch the Thebe Magugu Suite and Magugu House. In this episode, LVMH Prize winner Thebe Magugu reflects on a decade of his brand and his mission of "Afro-encyclopedic" fashion: using cloth as a powerful tool for preservation, advocacy, and memory.

Guest: Franziska Wendler (Director, Galerie EIGEN + ART) The Conversation: Jo-Ann connects with Franziska Wendler to discuss a historic milestone: the gallery’s participation in the inaugural edition of Art Basel Doha. This episode focuses on the presentation of Neo Rauch, the most prominent figure of the New Leipzig School and one of Germany’s most influential living painters.

Jo-Ann connects with Cyril Moumen to explore the "nomadic" spirit of Gallery Nosco. After relocating his program from London to the South of France and Brussels, Cyril brings a globally-minded presentation to Cape Town centered on the 2026 theme of "Appropriation".

Fresh from his residency in Germany, Brett Charles Seiler discusses his life as a "swallow," chasing the sun between Europe and South Africa. Brett and Franziska explore the creation of "Low Budget Love Story" and how his raw, poetic use of materials like bitumen and text continues to capture urgent, intimate moments.

A deep dive into the "radical experimentalism" of Gabrielle Kruger’s studio. Gabrielle explains her unique process of peeling and weaving paint into 3D sculptural "skins" and "hanging landscapes". Franziska discusses the gallery’s long-standing connection between Leipzig and Cape Town and their 2026 booth featuring Birgit Brenner’s powerful social installations.

Jo-Ann sits down with the team from Nairobi’s Circle Art Gallery to discuss their return to the Investec Cape Town Art Fair. Sujay Shah reveals the evolution of his practice—moving from satirical takes on colonial trophy hunting to complex, ambiguous "hybrid" and "cyborg" figures that challenge the viewer to look closer. Danda shares the gallery’s 14-year journey and the vital importance of building cross-continental collector bases and critical dialogue within Africa.

The air at the Cape Town Art Fair is electric. It feels as though the entire world has descended on the tip of Africa to experience the pulse of contemporary art. In this whirlwind episode of ARTdacity, we bridge the gap between high-level curation and the raw, human stories that power the industry. I sat down with art historian Liese van der Watt to discuss her "labor of love and relief," the book We, The People, which traces 30 years of South African art and democracy. We also welcome home Rita Mawuena Benissan, whose monumental atrium commission at the Zeitz MOCAA left patrons in tears, as she reflects on the profound "coronation" of culture and the enduring legacy of Koyo Kouoh.

Tonight, the red walls of the Zeitz MOCAA aren't just a design choice—they are a provocation. I am honored to be at the opening of the exhibition A Protea Is Not a Flower, a deep-dive research project that places contemporary giants Robin Rhode and Lerato Shadi in a haunting, vital conversation with the legacies of Bessie Head, Gerard Sekoto, and Don Mattera. In this segment, we stand before a staggering 1:1 ratio mural of the facade of John Vorster Square, the notorious Johannesburg police station. This fragment of architecture serves as a backdrop to the poetry of Don Mattera, specifically his 1970s work "Fallen Fruit," dedicated to the mother of anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Timol. As we walk through the monochromatic photography offset by these visceral red surfaces, we aren't just looking at art; we are questioning the very mechanics of history: Who records it? Who is pushed to the periphery? And how do we celebrate the "grandness" of figures like Bessie Head, who lived in humble poverty but left a legacy that is computationally priceless?

The beauty of the Cape Town Art Fair lies in its serendipity. While grabbing breakfast at "Between Us," I followed a "rabbit hole" led by London-based gallerist Isaac and found myself in an extraordinary, hidden space dedicated to the late Johannes Segogela. Johannes (1936–2018) was a master of wood sculpture whose work remains a powerful, if sometimes overlooked, pillar of the South African art landscape. Despite his presence in major global museums and a long history with the Goodman Gallery, Segogela is a reminder of how easily legendary African artists can slip into the digital shadows—even today, the internet erroneously lists him as still living. In this episode, we explore his dogmatic, tender, and often startling world: a place where angels film the tragedies of the African Renaissance and the struggle between sin and salvation is carved into every figure.

Cape Town is alive with the electric energy of Art Fair season, and we’re right in the heart of the action at Strauss & Co.to explore two extraordinary exhibitions that bookend the story of South African art: “Portway to Cohen” and the deeply poignant “Hair Matters.” I’m joined by art specialist Wilhelm and researcher Kirstie Pietersen to navigate this rich landscape—from the modernist legacy of Douglas Portway and the provocative, identity-driven performances of Steven Cohen, to a pan-African exploration of hair as a crown, a commodity, and a powerful vessel for history. We discuss the works of trailblazers like Tracey Rose, Hank Willis Thomas, and Adebunmi Gbadebo, uncovering how art serves as both a mirror and a catalyst for liberation.

There is a silence in Namibia that speaks louder than words—a vastness that Jo-Ann Strauss describes as a place where one can truly "hear God." In this episode of ARTdacity, we sit down with Namibian-born artist, photographer, and scholar Nicola Brandt to discuss her breathtaking new book, Reducing The Distance Within. Nicola takes us on a decade-long journey through her homeland, working with the legendary "King of Print," Gerhard Steidl, to birth a project that is as much an academic inquiry as it is a visual soul-searching mission. We delve into the "cosmic lottery" of birth, the complexity of navigating a post-apartheid identity, and the hidden scars left on a landscape often mistaken for empty. From the haunting legacy of eugenics in Rehoboth to the "God complex" of landscape art inspired by the late Santu Mofokeng, this conversation bridges the gap between private and public memory.

You can’t miss Chris Soal—not just because he is frequently the tallest person in the room, but because his work possesses a magnetic, architectural gravity that pulls you in. Ahead of the launch of his new monograph, I sat down with this visionary young artist to trace a career that has rapidly ascended from the "Jozi hustle" to the permanent collections of the Brooklyn Museum and SFMOMA. Chris has a rare gift for transforming the overlooked—millions of single-use toothpicks, discarded beer bottle caps, and worn sandpaper—into writhing, tactile sculptures that bridge the gap between intuition and intention. In this episode of ARTdacity, we discuss his formative time at the RAW Academy in Dakar, the profound influence of luminaries like Koyo Kouoh and Otobong Nkanga, and his philosophy on "perceptive capacity"—the discipline of finding value in what society has already dismissed.

​​In this deeply personal season milestone, we gather at the Zeitz MOCAA Members Lounge to celebrate more than just a birthday—we are birthing a dream. I am officially launching the Masekhaya Foundation, a name that bridges my worlds: ‘Ma se-’ (my mother’s) and ‘khaya’ (home). This episode is a reflection on the roots that sustain us. I share stories of my childhood in Blackheath during the 1980s, the "beautiful crazy" of my mother—my first art teacher—who turned pillowcases into canvases, and the memory of my brother, who I carry with me every day. From an outreach ballet project that gave a seven-year-old girl a stage, to my current mission of dancing on point in 2026, I explore the idea that a dream delayed is never a dream denied. Masekhaya is my way of ensuring that art is no longer just "something that hangs on rich people's walls," but a space where every African child feels they belong.

It feels surreal to be standing at the threshold of Season 3, exactly one year since we launched ARTdacity on Valentine’s Day 2025. This milestone is more than just an anniversary; it’s a beautiful, full-circle moment as we celebrate the official launch of the Masekhaya Foundation—a dream that has come to life through a shared commitment to telling African stories in African voices. In this season opener, I reflect on the seismic shifts we’re seeing in the global art ecosystem, from the inaugural Art Basel in Doha—a sophisticated blend of art fair and biennale—to our very own upcoming debut at the Investec Cape Town Art Fair. For the first time, ARTdacity moves from the sidelines to the center stage as an exhibitor. Our booth may be just six square meters, but it is a space with the biggest heart, serving as a physical "love letter" to the contemporary African artists and creatives who inspire us every day.

We're basking in the light and optimism of Veuve Clicquot's incredible exhibition, "Emotions of the Sun," showing at the Youngblood Art Gallery until December 21st. I speak with three of the eight phenomenal, world-renowned photographers Christina de Middel, Newsha Tavakolian, and South Africa’s own Lindokuhle Sobekwa - who were given carte blanche to interpret the sun, the ultimate source of light and life, as their muse.

As we close Season 2 of ARTdacity, I’m filled with gratitude for the incredible artists, curators, and listeners who’ve joined this journey -exploring how art shapes who we are and how we see the world. This season has deepened our conversations about creativity, identity, and connection across the continent and beyond. As we look ahead to Season 3, we’re already planning inspiring new interviews and moments that will continue to celebrate the audacity of art - its power to challenge, heal, and unite. Thank you for listening, for engaging, and for believing in the transformative force of contemporary African art.

In Episode 10 of ARTdacity Season 2, I sit down with Zolani Mahola- celebrated singer, storyteller, and creative force. Her roots in the Eastern Cape have profoundly shaped her artistry and worldview. We explore how her journey, music, and spirituality intertwine to create a deeply authentic expression of art and identity.

In Episode 9 of ARTdacity Season 2, I sit down with the creative collective Half and Halve to unpack their exhibition, Klop Klop, hosted at Under the Aegis - a space founded by Anelisa Mangcu. We explore how identity, collaboration, and art intersect in their bold, thought-provoking practice.

In Episode 8 of ARTdacity Season 2, I sit down with Albie Sachs-freedom fighter, former Constitutional Court judge, and art lover -at his home in Clifton, just before he left for London for The Albies, a global human rights award ceremony. We discuss his exhibition Spring is Rebellious, currently showing at Zeitz MOCAA, and how art has shaped his lifelong pursuit of justice.

the BMW Young Collectors was started in 2020 as a network for emerging collectors to learn more through the likes of Mandla Sibeko an incredible art professional. I had the pleasure of joining Mandla and one of the collectors who was featured on the program Veronique Savigne at her incredible house in Cape Town as we chatted about what collecting means.

This week on ARTdacity I spoke to Mandla Sibeko who is the person behind Joburg Art Fair as well as BMW Art Generation. He has also made a huge impact but his impact extends far beyond collection to also curating events that really help to highlight the significance of art and the lifestyle.

Benjamin Fueglister, co-founder of the newly launched Africa Basel chats to us about his ambitious new fair spotlighting contemporary African art during one of the world’s biggest art weeks. We explore the motivations behind its creation, the challenges African galleries face in global markets, and how this fair hopes to carve out a bold new space in Basel’s historic heart.

Marc Barben of Stevenson speaks about the gallery’s collective model, curating for Art Basel, and how a diverse team brings fresh energy to their programme. From historic works like a rare 1947 Ernest Mancoba to new pieces by Penny Siopis, Portia Zvavahera, and Simphiwe Ndzube, we unpack what’s heading to Basel—and how South African galleries are shaping the global art scene.

I speak with Liza Essers, owner of Goodman Gallery, about her remarkable journey from economics and film into the art world. We explore how she’s helped shape South Africa’s art ecosystem, taken African voices to the global stage, and what to expect from her booth at Art Basel this year—including works by El Anatsui, Shirin Neshat, and the next generation of African talent.

I sit down with Jonathan Garnham of blank projects, a trailblazing Cape Town gallery known for its focus on abstraction. We talk about his journey from artist to gallerist, the challenges of showing at Art Basel, and what it takes to put African art on the global stage.

We reflect on the impact of the late Koyo Kouoh, a towering figure in African contemporary art. We reflect on her legacy and how her passing reshaped the season’s direction. The episode also spotlights the 3 South African galleries who have achieved international success at Art Basel and who are showing again this year. We also speak one of the founders of Africa Basel, a new platform amplifying African voices in the global art scene.

Art fairs serve as a dynamic platform for showcasing emerging and established artists while fostering connections between collectors, galleries, and the public. The Cape Town Art Fair, the largest of its kind in Africa, is a vibrant hub where local and international artists converge. From the Tomorrow’s Today section championing young talent to internationally acclaimed booths, the fair provides visibility and growth opportunities for artists like Boemo Diale, last year’s winner, whose career has soared. Gallerists like Daudi Karungi from AfriArt emphasize the importance of curating globally resonant works, while artists like Charlene Komuntale interrogate themes of beauty and identity. Art fairs not only celebrate creativity but also make art more accessible, inviting audiences to engage, reflect, and invest in the evolving African art scene.

We’re at the opening of the Stellenbosch Triennale, a visionary exhibition curated by Khanyisile Mbongwa. With the theme Ba'zinzile: A Rehearsal for Breathing, the Triennale calls us to pause, reflect, and acknowledge history while engaging with powerful site-specific installations. From Manyaku’s kraal to Simphiwe’s thought-provoking structures, artists were challenged to create in the moment, breathing life into the landscape. We also speak to Ernestine Deane, who led a moving ceremony to welcome ancestors and embrace the land’s layered past. Join us as we explore how art can heal, provoke, and remind us to take a breath.

I’m joined by Zain Nazier, who leads the Norval Foundation’s education program, and Evaan Jason Ferreira, a Zeitz MOCAA UWC Fellowship alumni, both of whom are shaping the future of art accessibility. Zain shares how art became his lifeline, helping him navigate dyslexia and trauma, and how he now fosters creativity in young minds. Evaan reflects on the impact of the Zeitz MOCAA fellowship, opening doors for aspiring art professionals. From hands-on workshops to mobile museums, we discuss why art education is vital for self-expression, identity, and opportunity. Join us as we explore how investing in art education can empower the next generation of African artists and thinkers.

In this episode, we sat down with Liese van der Watt, curator of We the People, an exhibition at the Norval Foundation that reflects on 30 years of South African democracy. Through four themes—To Belong, To Protest, To Care, and To Be Heard—this powerful exhibition challenges us to engage critically with our past and future. From Bronwyn Katz’s installations to Igshaan Adams’ evocative works, Liese’s curation sparks vital conversations about identity, belonging, and resilience. Join us as we explore how art can question, inspire, and ultimately shape our shared narrative.

I sit down with Johannesburg-based artist Lerato Nkosi, the inaugural winner of the ANNA Award. Lerato’s unique practice—using ink, stamps, and water—challenges ideas of identity, memory, and self-discovery, particularly from a female perspective. We discuss how her upbringing shaped her artistic voice, the role of social media in expanding visibility, and the challenges of navigating the art world as a woman. With her latest exhibition at Gallery Momo, Lerato is carving a distinct space for herself in the industry, creating thought-provoking works that push important conversations into new spaces. Join us for a deep dive into her journey, her inspirations, and how she’s redefining contemporary African art—one layered, evocative piece at a time.

Welcome to Artdacity, where we celebrate the bold and boundary-pushing voices of contemporary African art. In this episode, I catch up with the phenomenal Breeze Yoko—muralist, street artist, and global ambassador of African creativity. From his roots in hip-hop and graffiti to his internationally recognized murals, Breeze shares how art can be both a form of resistance and a universal language. We discuss the satire and social commentary in his work, the pressures of “fitting in,” and his mission to bridge African and global art communities. Speaking from London fresh off a residency, he reflects on his journey, the importance of representation, and how travel shapes artistic vision. This is a conversation about movement—physical, cultural, and artistic. Join us as we explore how African street art is taking up space on the world stage.

In this episode, we explore the impact of the Venice Biennale and its growing connection to African artists and curators. I speak with Anelisa Mangcu about her great-grandfather, George Pemba, and how his legacy shaped her journey in the art world. We also catch up with Kimberly Drew, Siwa Mgoboza, and other key voices shaping the African art landscape, discussing accessibility, representation, and the power of storytelling in curation. With Koyo Kouoh set to be the first African woman to direct the Biennale in 2026, we reflect on what this means for the global stage. Join us for an inspiring conversation on art, identity, and the future of African creativity. In this episode, we explore the impact of the Venice Biennale and its growing connection to African artists and curators. I speak with Anelisa Mangcu about her great-grandfather, George Pemba, and how his legacy shaped her journey in the art world. We also catch up with Kimberly Drew, Siwa Mgoboza, and other key voices shaping the African art landscape, discussing accessibility, representation, and the power of storytelling in curation. With Koyo Kouoh set to be the first African woman to direct the Biennale in 2026, we reflect on what this means for the global stage. Join us for an inspiring conversation on art, identity, and the future of African creativity.

I sit down with Jana Terblanche, curator at Southern Guild, just before she heads to Los Angeles to open a group exhibition. We dive into her journey from growing up in a small diamond mining town in Namibia to shaping the South African art scene and taking it to the global stage. Jana shares how curiosity led her into the world of art, her thoughts on fashion’s impact on accessibility, and what it means to be a curator. We also discuss the vibrant Cape Town art scene, its differences from LA, and the young African artists she’s most excited about. With deep insights into curation, creativity, and championing African artistry, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about contemporary art. Tune in to hear Jana’s inspiring perspective on art and its evolving global influence.

I’m thrilled to be speaking with the incredibly talented Thania Petersen, a contemporary African artist whose work has captivated me for years. Thania’s exploration of identity—particularly through the lens of her upbringing in Apartheid South Africa, her royal Indonesian heritage, and her unique experiences—has made a profound impact on me. I’ll never forget standing in front of her pieces at Art Basel and feeling so seen, which is exactly what her art achieves: it creates a space where people can reflect on their own identities and histories. Her reflections on identity—shaped by personal and historical narratives—are powerful, and we dive into her theories about the "passion gap," a fascinating concept linked to cultural practices. We also touch on how the art world can sometimes feel like an exclusive space, but through her work, Thania makes art accessible and relatable, inviting others to explore their stories and histories.

Welcome to ARTdacity—a podcast dedicated to contemporary African art. I’m Jo-Ann Strauss, a media professional from Cape Town, and this is my love letter to art and its power to shape our lives. In a screen-obsessed world, we rarely pause to engage deeply with art. As a mother of four, I see how vital the arts are in shaping well-rounded individuals. I believe art should be more accessible and that African artists deserve greater recognition on the global stage. Artdacity merges "art" and "audacity"—because embracing art requires boldness. From attending Art Basel and the Venice Biennale to working with Zeitz MOCAA, I’ve explored the evolving role of art. Through this podcast, I invite you to join me in discovering, discussing, and celebrating the impact of contemporary African art.