Empowering Emerging Gauteng-Based Artists – Javett-UP’s Tlhagella Incubation Programme Launches with CFLI Support to Develop Professional and Entrepreneurial Skills.

Courtesy of Javett-UP.
Made possible by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the Javett-UP is launching the Tlhagella Incubation Programme to nurture and empower artists with particular interest in learning basic professional practice and entrepreneurial skills through a series of workshops between the months of February and March 2025.
The Javett-UP, invites submissions from under-represented visual artists from marginalised or historically under-resourced backgrounds, residing in Gauteng (with priority given to those in Pretoria and surrounding areas). The programme offers participants an opportunity to develop professional skills, create artworks, and showcase their talent through a series of structured engagements.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The various phases of the programme include:
1. Professional Practice & Career Training Workshop:
30 Participants will be selected to engage in the first phase of the programme, that being a Professional Practice workshop guided by a leading professional arts practitioner. An art industry expert will share their knowledge and experiences within the art sector to guide participants in understanding and navigating the business of art & career management. This session aims to empower artists by equipping them with the necessary tools to effectively manage their careers, operate as businesses, and forge their professional identity through the intricacies of the art sector. The one-day workshop will be hosted at the Javett-UP on 4 February 2025.
2. Exhibition & Networking Event:
Javett-UP will host an Exhibition & Networking event featuring 10 under-represented, female artists from historically under-resourced communities within the Tshwane region. The event will offer these artists a pop-up exhibition experience, networking opportunities with stakeholders, and the potential to generate revenue through art sales. Featured artists will receive logistical support, personalised curatorial advice, a reasonable stipend to cover basic costs, and marketing materials, ensuring that participants receive comprehensive assistance to promote their work effectively within its extensive network of art patrons and buyers. Artists interested in participating in this phase will be selected through a stringent application process and will be required to utilize the skills acquired during the Professional Practice Workshop.
The announcement of the 10 selected artists that will exhibit their work at the Javett-UP will be made on 26 February 2025. The Exhibition & Networking Event will be held on 30 March 2025
3. Art Commissions & Sales
Five participants from the exhibition cohort will be commissioned to create unique artworks that will be transformed into limited edition prints and a merchandise collection which will be available for purchase at the Javett-UP Shop and through online platforms, offering artists increased visibility and revenue generation through a profit-sharing agreement. The selection of the five artists for the Art Commissions & Sales project will not involve a formal application process. Instead, these artists will be chosen by a panel from among those selected to participate in the exhibition.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE
- Apply online via the following link https://forms.gle/hFv4MLyvGBY7xpKD8
- Alternatively, request an application form by emailing connect@javettup.com with the subject line: “Javett-UP Incubation Application”. Please include your full name and contact number and a form will be sent to you.
- Hard copies of the application form are available at the Javett-UP reception desk for those who are unable to apply online or via email.
- Completed forms can be submitted online or returned via email or delivered in person to: Javett Art Centre, 23 Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, 0002.
- Successful applicants will be notified directly.
The deadline for applications is 17 January 2025 at 15:00.
For more information, please visit Javett-UP.


