It presents a space for the showcasing of established and new talent in an environment that is immersive, accessible and inclusive.
Due to Covid-19 and lockdown safety precautions across the country, a physical fair is not possible. But a fair is most definitely required to offer support and a platform for galleries and artists alike,” says Glynis Hyslop, founder of RMB TAF.A virtual fair gives galleries a chance to exhibit the work of selected artists, and provide a platform to showcase their brands and capitalise on the extensive marketing opportunities RMB TAF offers. A virtual fair also enables galleries and artists to harness a national and, possibly, an international audience.
“We believe that there is no better time than right now for collectors to actively support artists and galleries. We also see this as an opportunity to support art schools in ensuring a generation of new artists. Through our special projects, we showcase the work of emerging artists at the start of their careers, giving them a much-needed launch pad. We feel that it is vital to keep the art ecosystem engaged during this time and keep the conversations ongoing, and through our planned virtual talks and walkabout programme, sponsored by RMB Private Bank, we can so,” adds Hyslop.
“As the proud headline sponsor of RMB TAF, we can co-create a powerful platform to showcase artistic talent, which is needed now more than ever. The virtual fair will give galleries and artists access to a broader and more diverse audience while appealing to both existing and new collectors,” says chief marketing officer at RMB, Alison Badenhorst.
RMB TAF creates an authentically African art experience brought to life for the first time in a virtual digital format. Unlocking and supporting diverse young African talent demonstrates RMB’s vision to positively transform lives through partnering the creative economy.”Each gallery will have a dedicated virtual viewing room where they will display their artworks with interactive messaging, behind the scenes profiling of artists, and video. Visitors to the virtual RMB TAF will be able to search artist, exhibitor or medium.
“The public has embraced the ethos of RMB TAF and over the years have built a long-standing, trusted relationship with the fair, which provides a safe and curated space in which to buy art,” says Hyslop.
