City gallery brings local art to conference centre

Tamlynne Thompson and Staff Reporter|Published 4 months ago

Gary Koetser, CEO Century City Conference Centre and Hotel, with Moeketsi Moahloli, Phillip Mabote, Justice Mathonsi, Jaret Loggenberg and Fadiel Hermans, local artists who are featured in the permanent exhibition at the centre. Picture: Supplied

The Century City Conference Centre (CCCC) has partnered with The Artists Gallery in Bree Street to bring South African art to the centre, turning the space into a live gallery.

The partnership was announced on Tuesday October 15, at Canvas and Community, an event hosted by CCCC, dedicated to celebrating local artistic talent.

A permanent collection was unveiled at the event, which was bought from The Artists Gallery.

Touching Hope by Fadiel Hermans is up at the Century City Conference Centre.

Gary Koetser, CEO of Century City Conference Centre and Hotels, said: “We believe in the power of art to inspire and transform spaces. By integrating these stunning works into our centre, we’re creating an environment that fosters creativity and connection.”

He said the event was a tribute to the artists whose work now forms part of the permanent collection.

“It’s also a way for us to celebrate the intersection of art, hospitality, and community.”

Jaret Loggenberg with one of her artworks, which was raffled off during the Canvas and Community event.

Jaret Loggenberg, managing director of The Artists Gallery, who was also one of the artists featured in the CCCC’s permanent exhibition, said they were incredibly proud that the gallery has been selected as a trusted partner for bringing strong, powerful and diverse art to the conference centre, which sees around 10 000 visitors a month.

“The trust placed in a young gallery, co-owned and managed by artists, to facilitate the art is a tremendous compliment. It once again demonstrates the power of art to connect people from all over the world.”

Ms Loggenberg said the CCCC was turning into a hub of art, wanting people who visit the centre to experience South Africa.

She said as an artist, is was a massive honour to be featured at the centre. “My dream is always to inspire and reflect growth - you have to work hard to earn.

“I love to uplift people and I think the art should reflect that.”

Barbara Lenhard, co-owner of The Artists Gallery, said the CCCC had a long-standing relationship with her and the gallery, and they had worked on many projects together.

She said this partnership was particularly special to her, as the CCCC gave emerging South African artists a platform for international audiences to see their work, and for the artists to shine. She said the art was also accessible and affordable.

“Hopefully the people who experience their art will contact them and us, and provide the artists with more opportunities.”