ANGJ Review: Beyond the Frame
Background
This year’s Mandela Day witnessed a groundbreaking entry into the art scene—the ANGJ left its mark on both the art world and the philanthropic landscape. However, the real question is: how did the fusion of different creative genres unfold, and what were the key takeaways? This article delves into precisely that.
Firstly, all ANGJ tickets sold out, a well-deserved mention as they were gone two days before the event—a remarkable feat! Over 150 guests attended, including those accompanying partner company invitees and other attendees. Passionate individuals from various creative and business pursuits gathered to celebrate Madiba’s legacy of social transformation and his bright vision for an equitable South Africa. The saying goes, ‘half of the job is showing up'—South Africa displayed great initiative, showing up from her provinces to support our grand cause.
The ANGJ Experience
The event was nothing short of spectacular, considering it was conceived this year and designed in the months leading up to Madiba Day. The pressure building up to the event was justified by the incredible medley of artistic pursuits, with even more artists participating than initially planned. Zoe Modiga, joining in at the last minute, graced the night with a soulful jazz fiesta in collaboration with Nduduzo Makhathini. Duncan’s saxophone added its own charm and permeated the sunset ambers of the beautiful Rosemary Hill Farm, and Ndlovukazi infused a deep sense of cultural nostalgia through her famed classic "Gugulethu." Many credits also go to Njabuloseh, who went after the great pianists of his time with such great creative ferocity.
With artworks on display and an ambient atmosphere filled with philanthropists, business people, collectors, art enthusiasts, and other creatives, the inaugural ANGJ exceeded its promise.
The Art and the Surprise Auction: Jewelry and Ostrich Eggs
28 pieces were on show, and the highlight pieces included the stunning Nelson Mandela dedication piece "Infinity I," Infinity II, Perfect Form, and Motherly. The collection progressed mid-event and was accompanied by a collectibles auction hosted by our partners, Barnard Auctioneers. The partnership ensured a wider price spectrum for an equitable collection experience for auction participants of all economic sorts. The highlights of Barnard's complementary auction include gold and diamond antique jewelry, 19th and early 20th-century artifacts, old coins, and ostrich eggs etched in original Khoisan art.
How does this concern you?
You've made it to this portion of the article; perhaps you're wondering how all this touches you. Believe it or not, despite the resounding success of the ANGJ project, it is still in its infancy and exudes a humongous potential yet untapped. Operating on an annual event basis, we aim to scale systematically in ways that are both relevant and impactful for South Africa. No great thing can be achieved in isolation; we can't, and, to be honest, neither can you. Now that we've laid out the obvious, it's time for us to pitch you for our next event.
Are you a visual artist, a performance artist, or part of another creative discipline?
Are you a socially conscious business or organization?
ANGJ could just be the right event for you.
ANGJ brings together different worlds under a shared appreciation for Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest men to grace our continent. Being a part of ANGJ harnesses your business success for social good and etches your brand in the minds of our audience, who are themselves an apt customer base and high-potential business partners. For creatives, this presents an opportunity to spotlight your creative prowess.
To secure your spot at the next ANGJ event, register your interest using the form below.
Click here to access the form.
