**FATSHIMETRY – Art news: Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude wins prestigious FNB award**
In a global context marked by xenophobia and division, the judges of the annual FNB Art Award chose to celebrate art that transcends borders by awarding their award to Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude, a Zimbabwean-born artist based in Harare. This prestigious award was presented to Nyaude at a ceremony in Johannesburg, where the artist, filled with emotion, said he was honoured and delighted.
The FNB Award is part of the FNB Art Fair, the oldest contemporary African art fair. For its 17th edition, the event will be held from 6 to 8 September at the Sandton Convention Centre. As the winner of the 2024 edition, Nyaude’s works will be exhibited at the fair, allowing him to benefit from greater visibility. In addition, he will receive a cash prize and the chance to present a solo exhibition at the Johannesburg Art Gallery.
The jury praised the striking balance between hope and political resistance in Nyaude’s works. Through a skillful use of satire, the artist manages to navigate and illuminate complex and sometimes contentious subjects with subtlety, inviting viewers to engage critically. His commitment to the medium is reflected in his refined technique and sophisticated use of color. His mastery of brushstrokes showcases both his technical skills and the expressive power of his work.
In winning the FNB Prize, Nyaude joins a prestigious list of past winners, including renowned artists such as Lindokuhle Sobekwa, Dada Khanyisa, and Portia Zvavahera. His artistic approach continues to inspire and set new benchmarks in the field of contemporary African art.
The Zimbabwean laureate is celebrated for his refusal to conform to the stereotypical identity imposed by the Zimbabwean state. His work oscillates between figuration, abstraction and hallucination, drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy of his hometown.
Over the past 16 years, Nyaude’s work has garnered international acclaim and collectors’ attention. Presented in the exhibition Songs for Sabotage at the New Museum Triennial in 2018, his work is now exhibited in various museums and private collections around the world.
In conclusion, Gresham Tapiwa Nyaude embodies through his art a bold and committed vision that transcends cultural and political boundaries. His exceptional talent and ability to provoke thought through his works make him a pillar of the contemporary African art scene.
The art world is coming together at the FNB Art Fair, where more than 100 African artists from 14 countries will be showcased. This event promises to celebrate the diversity and richness of artistic creation on the continent.