First National Bank remains committed to the support of arts and culture as it celebrates all that African contemporary art represents. FNB have been the proud sponsors of the FNB Joburg Art Fair for the past five years and we expect this year’s Art Fair to be a highlight on every art lover’s calendar. Our commitment to the fair will ensure that we continue to introduce South African and African artists to an array of creative individuals and art enthusiasts in South Africa, Africa and globally.  
Contemporary art refers to art that has been created “during our lifetime”, in other words art that was created “for us” by our peers.  Let us be conscious of this fact when we visit the exhibition this year.   Remember that you do not have to be an expert to enjoy art.  There is no right or wrong interpretation of art, and that is the beauty of the FNB Joburg Art Fair as it caters to a diverse audience of art enthusiasts and art novices.

Last year saw the introduction of the FNB Joburg Art Prize, with photographer Cedric Nunn walking away with a cash prize of R 100 000.  Our intention with the introduction of the FNB Art Prize was to reinforce our endorsement of the artist’s valued contribution to our diverse cultural fabric.  We hope that the FNB Art Prize will soon become one of the most desired international art prizes of its kind..
Art has always been an interesting form of alternative investment, and to some it has been most rewarding in more than just monetary value.  We trust that this year’s FNB Joburg Art Fair will again offer a multitude of opportunities to invest in pieces of art that might offer great returns in the future.  To others the potential future value of an art piece is perhaps not as important.  Some might buy art purely for the experience and joy found in a particular piece.  Whatever your motivation, this year’s FNB Joburg Art Fair will showcase a great variety of artists selected by the participating galleries.
Congratulations to all the artists exhibiting this year. May you all continue to create, innovate and inspire.  Always stay true to yourself and your art and may the rewards be more than you could ever hope for.

Bernice Samuels
Chief Marketing Officer
First National Bank