Renowned Durban artist Grace Kotze will present a self-curated stand of her work, including her favorite piece 'Darwin's Perch', at the Art in the Country 2025 fair in Hilton from May 22 to 25. The fair, held at Harrington House, features 62 of South Africa's top artists and includes live music. Kotze, who recently showed at the Clarens Arts Festival, draws inspiration from everyday life and cites influences such as William Kentridge and Rembrandt.
The article highlights Kotze's perspective on the shrinking Durban art scene and her advice to emerging artists to work hard and develop thick skin. It matters because it spotlights a regional South African art fair and a local artist's practice, reflecting broader trends in the country's art market and the challenges faced by artists outside major urban centers. The piece also underscores the importance of community-based art events in sustaining local creative economies.