Standard Bank announces 2026 Young Artists ahead of National Arts Festival

The annual awards are regarded as a key platform for creative development in South Africa, with recipients presenting new work at the National Arts Festival, scheduled to take place from 25 June to 5 July.

This year’s cohort includes Gabi Motuba (jazz), Ndumiso Manana (music), Bronwyn Katz (visual art), Jason Jacobs (theatre) and Lee-ché Janeke (dance).

The awards programme supports artists at a pivotal stage in their careers, providing both financial backing and a platform to debut new work at the festival. Over the years, it has played a role in shaping the development of various artistic disciplines in the country.

According to organisers, the 2026 recipients reflect a range of contemporary practices, often combining traditional forms with experimental approaches and engaging with both local and international contexts.

Visual artist Bronwyn Katz, based in Cape Town, is known for sculptural and installation work that explores themes of land, memory and language. Her practice draws on oral traditions and material forms to examine historical narratives.

Jazz recipient Gabi Motuba, a vocalist, composer and educator at the Wits School of Arts, works across jazz and experimental music. Her compositions often engage with themes of spirituality, politics and philosophy.

Theatre awardee Jason Jacobs, originally from Kharkams in Namaqualand, has worked across stage and film. His recent projects include Variations on a Theme, which received awards at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam and the Joburg Film Festival.

In dance, Lee-ché Janeke, also known as Litchi HOV, has built an international profile as a choreographer and creative director. His work spans commercial and performance contexts, including collaborations with global artists.

Music recipient Ndumiso Manana, a singer-songwriter and producer from Eswatini, has released several projects blending R&B, electronic and African genres. He has also contributed to international productions, including songwriting credits on Twice As Tall by Burna Boy.

Organisers said further details of the 2026 programme will be announced in May.