Frequently Asked Questions

If your question isn’t answered on this page, send an email to: admin@ava.co.za and we will get back to you!

 
 

I am interested in exhibiting my work at the AVA. How do I go about this?

Artists interested in having a solo or group exhibition at the AVA need to submit an exhibition proposal at a certain time of the year. An open call for submissions is sent out in June, the AVA Selection Committee reviews all proposals in August, and the exhibition programme for the following year is announced in September. Make sure to subscribe to our mailing list for announcements regarding the open call.

What are the costs associated with exhibiting at the AVA?

Most exhibitions at the AVA run for four weeks. If your exhibition is selected as part of AVA’s programme, the following gallery rental costs apply:

Main Gallery: R6,000

Long Gallery: R4,500

Mezzanine Gallery: R3,500

New Media Room: R1,500

How do I apply for funding for art materials, studio space or exhibition costs?

Initiated in the late 1980s, the AVA ArtReach fund serves to nurture South African talent. Over the years, the ArtReach programme has funded a broad spectrum of artists’ needs, including: art materials, art workshops, framing, studio rentals, new galleries in schools, exhibition costs for shows at the AVA, catalogues and a host of other activities. An open call for ArtReach applications is sent out in October. Artists exhibiting at the AVA the following year may apply to wave their gallery rental fee.

What does the AVA’s NPO status mean?

It means that the gallery is, as it has been from the outset, a not-for-profit body. As such, it has been registered with the Department of Social Development and with SARS (status of Public Benefit Organisation). We comply with all directives of the Department of Social Development. Simply put, any surplus that the Association may have gathered at the end of a financial year is pumped back into the AVA’s ArtReach Fund, further supporting artists and the art sector.

What are the benefits of becoming an AVA Member?

Members enjoy the following benefits:

  • Invitations to all exhibition private views and openings

  • Invitations to artist and curator walkabouts

  • Opportunity to show in the annual Members Exhibition

  • Discount of 3% on all artwork at AVA Gallery

  • Discount of 10% on art supplies acquired from The Deckle Edge

  • Discount of 10% on selected photographic printing at Cameraland

  • Discount of 10% on art supplies acquired from Artland

  • A negotiated discount on venue rental for functions, events and exhibitions

  • A complimentary glass of wine from Spier on First Thursdays

Does the AVA rent the gallery space for events?

Yes. Three of the four gallery spaces in AVA’s building are available to rent for private events. You are welcome to send a proposal for our committee to review to admin@ava.co.za. Service packages are compiled on an individual basis.