Jacaranda Art Challenge winning artists announced
By CityLife Arts Writer
American Express, in collaboration with Keyes Art Mile, is pleased to announce the artist r1., as the winner of the inaugural Jacaranda Art Challenge.
In addition to receiving the grand prize of R20,000, r1.’s artwork was installed as a magnetic mural at the Keyes Art Mile building. The Jacaranda-inspired piece will remain on the Keyes Art Mile facade throughout the season, bringing a splash of colour and celebration to this vibrant art district.
This announcement took place on 7 November at Keyes Art Night, where the winning piece was displayed alongside the nine finalists of the Amex Jacaranda Art Challenge. The winning mural started being installed throughout the night as a live performance art piece.
r1. is a contemporary artist from Johannesburg, specialising in multi-layered, site-specific works with a focus on geometric designs, particularly chevrons. His art explores urban structures and boundaries, using symmetry, layering, and visual illusions to engage viewers. He also integrates geometric shapes into both exterior and interior design, blending art with functionality.
“I am so grateful to receive this award. The artwork was inspired by my children. We were on a walk, and they were fascinated by the bees on the jacaranda flowers. That gave me the idea to create a purple hive,” said r1. during his acceptance of the prize. “The artwork is a combination of purple for the flowers, green for the leaves, yellow for the bees, and blue for the sky.”
Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Retail and Business Banking Marketing at Nedbank, adds: “We are incredibly proud of entries received, and the creative interpretation that artists across the country applied to the Jacaranda Art Challenge. r1.’s artwork beautifully captures the essence of Johannesburg’s transformation during Jacaranda season, and we’re excited to see it celebrated at Keyes Art Mile. This challenge continues to highlight Nedbank and American Express’ dedication to fostering creativity and enhancing the experiences of Amex Card Members in South Africa.”
Briana Wilsey, Vice President and General Manager of Global Network Services EMEA at American Express, says: “We are proud to see how the Jacaranda Art Challenge has mobilised talented artists like r1. and how our Amex Card Members in South Africa were excited about the competition. Our ambition is to create exclusive experiences for our Card Members while simultaneously contributing to the growth and sustainability of the local arts industry.”
The Jacaranda Art Challenge, organised by Nedbank, the authorised card issuer and merchant acquirer of American Express in South Africa, saw impressive participation from both emerging and established South African artists, graphic designers, and illustrators. The Challenge was inspired by the spirit and beauty of Jacaranda season, calling for original artwork that captures the essence of this iconic time of year. r1’s artwork stood out for its creative interpretation and vibrant representation of Johannesburg’s purple-blooming spectacle.