The competition is marked by its lack of criteria for entry; The Spier Contemporary 2010 asked only that the artists live in South Africa.
Exploration and searching for identity is a core element of the work. Cultural and race issues are still being unearthed and reviewed in a post-apartheid coming of age. Artists grappled with the "State" as a reflection of failed expectations, lack of leadership and disappointment. Football commentary also emerged as a strong theme, with many artists questioning the absence of real community benefits surrounding the forthcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup. Humour and self-deprecation ensure that the lighter moments of life are included in the show.
Digital art and photography emerged very clearly as popular mediums for this year's competition, which also includes a strong sculptural showing and performance art dimensions.
At the heart of the project; producer, The Africa Centre, has a vision to create and support artistic initiatives that centralise the African perspective and approach. The Spier Contemporary arose in part from a need to find a national voice for South African art, but also to reflect South African contemporary art within the definition of an African Contemporary Art framework. Said Africa Centre director, Tanner Methvin: "Perceptions of African art are often connected to the historic; we wanted to provide a platform for art that defies this limited perspective and transcend African art out of its box into what it is: contemporary art."
A total prize money of R1.2 million and seven artist in residency programmes worth over R600 000 will be awarded to the finalists and winning artists.
Winners will be announced on the 13 March 2010.
The Spier Contemporary 2010 Exhibition is at the Cape Town City Hall, 14 March to 14 May, 2010. Daily 10am to 6pm. Entrance is free.
A printed catalogue of the exhibition can be ordered directly from The Africa Centre by emailing .
For more, got to www.spiercontemporary.co.za
