Media Statement: For immediate release 25 August 2026
The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) is proud to partner with the South African Gallery of Legends (SAGOL), the National Heritage Council (NHC) and Ditsong Museums of South Africa in presenting the Legendary Women in the Arts exhibition. The initiative forms part of the national commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings, paying tribute to women whose artistic excellence, cultural leadership and activism have made an enduring contribution to South Africa’s democracy, cultural heritage and creative landscape.
The partnership reflects the NAC’s mandate to develop, promote and support the arts by fostering artistic excellence, advancing transformation, preserving South Africa’s cultural heritage and expanding access to the arts. Through collaborative initiatives such as this, the NAC continues to celebrate the achievements of South African artists while creating opportunities to preserve their legacies and inspire future generations.
The exhibition will be officially launched on 27 August 2026 at Ditsong Museums of South Africa. It will showcase the works and legacies of some of South Africa’s most celebrated women visual artists, sculptors and storytellers, including Dr Esther Mahlangu, Dr Noria Mabasa, Helen Sebidi, Esther Mguni, Rebecca Matibe and Dr Gcina Mhlophe. Following the official launch, the exhibition will be open to the public from 28 August 2026 for a period of six months, featuring curated displays, educational engagements and public programmes that promote heritage preservation, intergenerational knowledge sharing and broader public appreciation of South Africa’s artistic legacy.
The collaboration between the NAC, SAGOL, the NHC and Ditsong Museums of South Africa represents a shared commitment to recognising the invaluable contribution of women artists while addressing historical imbalances in their visibility and representation. Together, the partners seek to preserve South Africa’s cultural heritage and strengthen an inclusive, vibrant and sustainable creative sector.
Speaking on the initiative, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Council of South Africa, Mr Lebogang Mogoera, said:
“The Legendary Women in the Arts exhibition celebrates the extraordinary women whose creativity, resilience and leadership have shaped South Africa’s cultural landscape. Through this partnership, we honour their enduring legacy while creating opportunities for present and future generations to engage with their stories, recognise their contributions and draw inspiration from their achievements. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to developing, promoting and supporting the arts, while preserving the rich cultural heritage that defines our nation.”
Members of the public, artists, students, educators, cultural institutions, government representatives and the international community are invited to visit the Legendary Women in the Arts exhibition from 28 August 2026, when it opens to the public for a period of six months. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience this landmark exhibition and celebrate the remarkable contributions of South Africa’s legendary women artists. As South Africa commemorates the 70th anniversary of the historic Women’s March, the exhibition stands as a fitting tribute to the enduring spirit of “Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo,” ensuring that the stories, achievements and artistic legacies of these extraordinary women continue to inspire generations to come.
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Media Enquiries : media@nac.org.za
Website: www.nac.org.za
Issued by the National Arts Council of South Africa
