Artyli Gallery is a contemporary African art gallery committed to rigorous curatorial practice, digital innovation, and the development of contemporary African art within both local and international contexts. Founded by Gallery Director Karen Cullinan in 2019, Artyli first opened its doors to the public in 2020, just three days before South Africa entered lockdown due to Covid-19.

Established through a deeply considered business plan that anticipated where the gallery world would be within the next decade at the time, Artyli launched with a full online e-commerce gallery platform and a strong digital marketing strategy already in place. In many ways, this proved serendipitous: prior to Covid, the gallery had already positioned itself for a more digitally connected art world, allowing it to continue engaging collectors and expanding delivery opportunities during a period of global uncertainty.

As a woman-led gallery with 40% black ownership and BBBEE Level 4 status, Artyli presents a curated selection of emerging and mid-career artists, creating a dialogue between new voices and established practices within contemporary African art. The gallery is deeply committed to identifying and supporting artists whose work will shape the future of the African art landscape, while also engaging mid-career artists whose practices reflect depth, refinement, and lasting significance.

Artyli participates in local and international art fairs, positioning its artists within a broader global conversation. Beyond exhibitions, the gallery offers art advisory, bespoke framing, delivery and installation, and safe, secure global shipping.

Through resilience, dedication, and sustained curatorial vision, Artyli Gallery continues to make meaningful strides in the art world.

 

 

  • The Artyli Team

    The Artyli Gallery team is a dynamic, women-led collective, grounded in expertise, resilience, and a shared passion for contemporary African art. Led by founder and director Karen Cullinan, the team brings together curatorial insight, strategic sales, and operational excellence. United by a commitment to meaningful engagement, they create a space where art can be experienced, considered, and collected with confidence.

     

    • Karen Cullinan, Founder / Gallery Director

      Karen Cullinan

      Founder / Gallery Director

      Karen Cullinan, Founder and CEO of Artyli Gallery, embodies the dual roles of businesswoman and practicing artist. She holds an Honours degree in Fine Art from the University of Johannesburg and has over 28 years of business experience. In 2020, she launched Artyli Gallery, successfully navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and establishing the gallery's brand. Karen oversees all operations and curates exhibitions. Before Artyli, she managed a commission-based art business for 24 years, creating artworks for corporate, hospitality, and residential markets in South Africa and internationally.

    • Michelle Fernie, Administration

      Michelle Fernie

      Administration

      Michelle Fernie is Artyli Gallery's dedicated bookkeeper and administrative assistant. Since the gallery's inception, she has played a crucial role in its success through her meticulous bookkeeping and invaluable support with various administrative tasks. Michelle's commitment and expertise have been instrumental in helping the gallery thrive, making her an indispensable member of our team.

    • Nonhlanhla Mahlangu , Gallery Manager

      Nonhlanhla Mahlangu

      Gallery Manager

      Nonhlanhla Mahlangu is the Gallery Manager at Artyli Gallery, bringing over a decade of experience across leading South African art institutions. With a background in fine art and curatorial practice, she oversees gallery operations and exhibition delivery with precision and care. Her strength lies in combining administrative rigour with a deep understanding of contemporary African art.

    • Linsey Samuels, Executive Art Consultant

      Linsey Samuels

      Executive Art Consultant

      Linsey Samuels is the Executive Art Consultant at Artyli Gallery, specialising in building meaningful client relationships with collectors both localy and internationaly. With a background in fine art and extensive experience in gallery management and art advisory, she drives both local and international sales,  through strategic engagement, tailored client experiences, and a strong understanding of contemporary African art markets

    • Keisha Jacobs, Research Specialist

      Keisha Jacobs

      Research Specialist

      Keisha Jacobs joined Artyli gallery in 2023 and has since returned to the Artyli team, after completing her third degree, a Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in Political Science, at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2024. She also has a BA Humanities degree (triple majored in Visual Culture Studies, Political Science and Anthropology) and a BA (Honours) degree in Visual Studies obtained Cum Laude from Stellenbosch University. At Artyli Gallery, her  portfolio, as Content and Research Specialist includes probing the intersection between visual culture and social justice through academic and creative writing, editing, research, curation and critical thinking around visual practice.

    • Karin Basel, Art Coach

      Karin Basel

      Art Coach

      Karin Basel has a long-standing passion for art, encompassing creation, education, and collection. She holds an MTech in Fine Art from the University of Johannesburg. In addition to creating her own artworks, Karin is dedicated to inspiring others to explore the joys of art—whether through creating, learning, or writing about it. She currently lectures at the University of Johannesburg and conducts private art coaching sessions. Karin also contributes content to Artyli Gallery and conducts specialized coaching sessions for selected artists, whom are working toward specific exhibitions. 

    • Thabile Matlatla, Gallery Support

      Thabile Matlatla

      Gallery Support

      Thabile Matlatla joined Artyli Gallery in 2022 and has since contributed significantly by assisting the team with dispatch, storeroom management, events, and gallery maintenance.