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“There must be something strangely sacred in salt. It is in our tears and in the sea.” – Khalil Gibran

“Salt” is at once sacred and ordinary — a mineral that seasons, heals, and preserves. Across time it has shaped empires, sealed covenants, and symbolised worth. It anchors the oceans, carries our tears, and reminds us of what endures.

In this exhibition, Salt becomes more than substance; it stands as metaphor for preservation — of culture, memory, and truth. It is the crystallisation of resilience and the quiet pulse of renewal. Like our own porous bodies, salt moves between worlds — dissolving and reforming, connecting waterscapes and landscapes, life and loss.

“Neither sugar nor salt tastes particularly good by itself. Each is at its best when used to season other things.” – Vera Nazarian

Art, too, is a kind of seasoning — enriching the human experience through reflection, language, and love.

Featuring Bambo Sibiya, Talia Goldsmith, Robert Slingsby, Andrew Ntshabele, Asanda Kupa, Toni-Ann Ballenden, Robert Wagener, and Bevan de Wet, Salt brings together leading contemporary South African artists whose works reveal the raw beauty of resilience embedded in African landscapes, cultures, and mythologies.

Together, their works invite us to savour life’s many intensities — to consider what we keep, what we release, and what we transform.
Just as salt renders flavour, art conjures meaning — illuminating the richness and complexity of being.

Artyli Gallery is a contemporary African art gallery committed to showcasing the creativity and diversity of African artists and those from the African diaspora. Our purpose is to provide a platform where artists’ studio practices, narratives, and voices are celebrated, fostering meaningful connections between creators, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Guided by the values of transparency and relationship-building, we strive to cultivate trust and credibility within the art community and beyond. Through considered curated exhibitions, enriching panel discussions, and engaging walkabouts, Artyli Gallery facilitates deeper understanding and appreciation for the vibrant stories embedded in African art.

 

Our unique approach balances accessibility and excellence. With both a physical presence in the prestigious Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg, and an expansive digital platform, we create opportunities for diverse audiences to explore and acquire artworks. From seasoned collectors to first-time buyers, we believe in making contemporary African art accessible without compromising its integrity or cultural significance.

 

We offer a comprehensive range of professional services, including global shipping, art advisory, curation, framing, delivery, and installation. This holistic approach ensures a seamless experience for our clients, while supporting the evolving careers of the artists we represent. Artyli Gallery invites you to engage with bold and thought-provoking exhibitions that reflect the richness of African creativity, foster cultural dialogue, and celebrate the enduring impact of art across borders.