Applications for Solo Studios 2026

INTRODUCTION

 

Solo Studios is a collaboration between artists, curators, and galleries primarily based in the Riebeek Valley. It offers a unique opportunity for art lovers, buyers, and collectors to engage directly with artists in their studios, experience curated exhibitions, and enjoy a diverse programme of accompanying activities.

Since its inception in 2016, Solo Studios: Intimate Art Encounters has grown significantly, with the 2025 edition achieving art sales exceeding R2.5 million. Momentum continues to build, and the 2026 edition promises to be even more dynamic, engaging, and successful.

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Solo Studios is a privately owned and professionally curated event. Successful applicants will work closely with Antonio Tomazini and the event management team in the lead-up to and during the event. Participation is selective and at the sole discretion of the curators and organisers.

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Only applicants who successfully complete the written application process will be invited to participate. By submitting an application, applicants confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to these guidelines, and commit to adhering to all timelines, requirements, and terms outlined in this document and the application form.

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Solo Studios 2026 invites artists to be part of a vibrant and immersive celebration of creativity in the heart of the Riebeek Valley. The event fosters meaningful connections between artists and audiences through intimate studio experiences, collaborative projects, and curated exhibitions.

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Beyond the studios, the event is enriched by a diverse programme of peripheral activities including performance art, poetry, long-table dining experiences, wine tastings, talks, and more. Artists are encouraged to think expansively and explore how their work can engage with audiences and the surrounding landscape.

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GUIDELINES

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The following guidelines are intended to assist applicants. While not all criteria are mandatory, meeting them will strengthen your application.

Participants should:

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• Agree to the Financial Terms of Participation (included in the application form).

• Be resident in, or have a permanent studio, workspace, gallery, or venue representation in the Riebeek Valley.

• Consider collaborative proposals, including partnerships with artists outside the Valley.

• Be engaged in their artistic practice on a full-time basis or derive their primary income from it.

• Produce work classified as fine/contemporary art rather than decorative art.

• Have a track record of solo or group exhibitions, or participation in similar events.

• Demonstrate the ability to generate sales through previous work.

• Show capacity to attract visitors through an existing client base.

• Maintain an active presence on platforms such as a website, Instagram, Facebook, X (old Twitter), or similar.

• Have experience in, or willingness to engage with, social upliftment or mentorship initiatives.

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CATEGORIES OF PARTICIPATION

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1. Studio Artists (Solo Exhibitions)

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The core of Solo Studios, featuring resident artists hosting solo exhibitions in their studios.

Applications must include:

• Résumé

• Three high-resolution images (minimum 1MB each) of recent work, including title, year, medium, and dimensions (cm)

• Artist statement

• Exhibition proposal (brief description)

• Short bio (±120 words)

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2. Collaborations

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Proposals for collaborations between local and/or non-resident artists are encouraged.

• Typically hosted within a resident artist’s studio, but alternative formats (outdoor installations, galleries, etc.) will be considered.

• Aims to bring fresh, innovative perspectives and expand audiences.

Submission requirements: Same as Studio Artists.

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3. Group Exhibitions / Galleries

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• Priority given to Riebeek Valley-based artists or collaborations involving local artists.

• Applications from permanent galleries and pop-up exhibitions are welcome.

Submission requirements: Same as Studio Artists.

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4. Peripheral Activities

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The curators welcome proposals that enhance the visitor experience, including:

• Installations and conceptual works

• Talks on art, food, wine, and related topics

• Performance art (theatre, music, film)

• Demonstrations and workshops

• Wine-related experiences (e.g. women in wine)

• Themed culinary experiences (e.g. long-table dining)

• Craft and artisanal showcases

• Community upliftment initiatives

All proposals are subject to curatorial approval.

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LOGISTICS AND BASIC TERMS

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1. Event Dates:
   Friday, 23 October – Sunday, 25 October 2026
   Participants must be available for the full duration.

2. Schedule:
   Opening times for studios, exhibitions, and performances will be confirmed after final selection.

3. Tickets:
   Ticketing structure and pricing to be confirmed.

4. Sales Commission:

   • 20% commission payable to Solo Studios on all sales during or resulting from the event.

5. Contractual Agreement:
   Submission of a signed application form, with all supporting documents, constitutes a binding agreement between the participant and the organisers.

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IMPORTANT DATES

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• 31 May 2026 – Closing date for applications

• 20 June 2026 – Final selection and notification

• 23–25 October 2026 – Event dates (installation recommended at least one week prior)

• 27 October 2026 – Submission of sales statistics

• By 3 November 2026 – Issuing of commission invoices

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ENQUIRIES

For all enquiries, please contact:
Antonio Tomazini
antoniotomazini@me.com