Strauss & Co Sponsors Ceramics Western Cape’s 2026 Premier Award

24 Jul 2026

Celebrating one of South Africa’s richest ceramics awards, the Western Cape’s premier ceramics exhibition returns for its 53rd year to the historic Castle of Good Hope after an unexpected venue change.

Strauss and Co is proud to be sponsoring the 2026 Premier Award, which will be presented at Ceramics Western Cape’s Annual Members Juried Exhibition. The partnership is well-aligned with our commitment to bolstering the growth of the secondary market for ceramics. The team of specialists within our dedicated ceramics department works diligently to highlight the incredible skill and variety showcased by South African ceramic artists. In addition, Strauss & Co has held annual ceramic-focused sales for the past six years that are part of our mission of expanding the visibility of and demand for ceramics. Therefore, we are pleased to be supporting Ceramics Western Cape as they celebrate the talented artists and the development of contemporary South African ceramics during their annual exhibition.

About the Annual Member Juried Exhibition

The Annual Members Juried Exhibition is recognised as one of South Africa’s most respected juried showcases of contemporary ceramic art. Featuring functional ware, sculptural ceramics, porcelain, stoneware, raku and experimental works, the exhibition offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to experience the breadth and innovation of contemporary ceramics being produced across the Western Cape. Every artwork has undergone a rigorous independent selection process, making inclusion in the exhibition a significant professional achievement.

Meet the Judging Panel

This year’s exhibition features work selected by an independent panel of respected ceramic professionals including Madoda Fani, Zanoxolo Sylvester Mqeku and Amogelang Maepa. Their combined expertise ensures a fair, independent and professionally curated exhibition representing the highest standards of contemporary ceramic practice. Madoda Fani has been selected by Ceramics Western Cape to be the Awards Judge who will choose the ceramics that receive awards.

With prizes valued at more than R70,000, the exhibition offers one of the richest regional ceramic award programmes in South Africa. Awards recognise excellence in artistic vision, technical mastery, originality and innovation, encouraging artists to continue pushing the boundaries of contemporary ceramic practice.

Why Ceramics Matter

Ceramics is among humanity’s oldest creative traditions, yet it remains one of its most dynamic. Combining earth, water and fire, ceramic artists create works that are simultaneously functional, sculptural and deeply personal. In an increasingly digital world, handmade ceramics remind us of the value of skill, patience and human connection.

Members of the public, collectors, galleries, designers, architects, students and art enthusiasts are warmly invited to attend and experience the exceptional quality and diversity of contemporary ceramics produced in the Western Cape. Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase original works directly from exhibiting artists, supporting local makers while acquiring unique pieces designed to be enjoyed for generations.

“Clay is unique because it sits at the intersection of art, craft, design and culture. Every piece carries the touch of the maker and the memory of earth transformed through fire. Our Annual Members Exhibition celebrates not only extraordinary artistic talent, but also the remarkable diversity of voices shaping contemporary ceramics in the Western Cape,” says Rosh Sewpersad, Chair of Ceramics Western Cape