THE
VISUAL ARTS
IN NUMBERS
VISUAL ARTS
IN NUMBERS
In 2023, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture commissioned Andani.Africa to revisit the visual arts ecosystem in South Africa. Drawing on 720+ surveys and extensive sector analysis, this story highlights key trends, economic data, strengths, challenges and strategic opportunities for growth.
sculpter
print maker
fine artist
photographer
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
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fashion designer
digital artist
muralist
Since 2009, turnover in South Africa’s visual arts sector has grown by 46.6%. Around 21,000 people work as visual artists daily, collectively contributing R2.6 billion to the economy. However, 45% spend more on their practice than they earn, highlighting a sector that is vibrant and transforming, yet still under significant financial pressure.
The visual arts contribute significantly to the economy, yet this contribution has shifted over time
R5.6bn
R2.6bn
The sector remains heavily shaped by market forces, with a small number of high-value, once-off works sold to a niche buyer base.
Growth in commercial value, exposure, and gallery infrastructure has been evident while non-commercial elements have seen notable decline.
The sector has undergone a demographic shift.
Practitioners today are younger, predominantly Black, with more women emerging
and increasingly using digital platforms for visibility and sales.
2010
2024
STRENGHTS
Innovation
Talent pipeline
Digital strategy
Global reach
CHALLENGES
Inconsistent income,
Limited policy support,
Funding gaps
IT ALSO SHOWED
WHERE SOUTH AFRICA’S
VISUAL ARTS
INFRASTRUCTURE IS
WHERE SOUTH AFRICA’S
VISUAL ARTS
INFRASTRUCTURE IS
(such as galleries, museums and educational institutions)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Andani.Africa’s review outlines several strategic recommendations for sector advancement aimed at DSAC and the broader visual arts ecosystem.
Review and Revisit the DSAC Strategy Supporting the International Promotion of the Visual Arts
Review and Refocus DSAC Strategies
Strengthen Visual Arts Participation in Existing Funding and Incentive Regimes
Ensure artists benefit financially from their work being resold by properly implementing Artist Resale Rights (ARR).
