Evolving from the Cape Fine Arts Society established in 1851, SANAVA is a national non-governmental association that is the oldest and most representative entity promoting the visual arts in South Africa.
Over the years we became a national body of artists and lovers of the visual arts, proving our resilience despite several war-time situations and challenges of an economic, financial, social and political nature.
Different times also brought different names – in 1871 we were the South African Fine Arts Association, in 1945 the South African Association of Arts and in 1998 we became the South African National Association for the Visual Arts – our name today.
Our quest to promote the visual arts manifests in the administration of three fully equipped artists’ studios in the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris, France. These were acquired in the early 1990s in terms of an occupational rights agreement, valid till 2060.
SANAVA aims to assist its branches and affiliates in their day-to-day operations. This includes providing opportunities for national exhibitions, funding for workshops and setting up connections. To grow a stronger network of art associations nation-wide, SANAVA facilitates the development of projects and events; advise on challenges and difficulties; and enable more direct community outreach. It is our vision to cultivate appreciation for and enjoyment of the visual arts for all.
SANAVA envisions to connect South Africa with the African continent and the rest of the world, facilitating the understanding of South Africa as part of the continental and international community. For many years SANAVA has been a member of the IAA (International Arts Association) in partnership with UNESCO. SANAVA is also in partnership with Absa in the L’Atelier art competition, which is pan-Africanist in its approach.
Lastly, SANAVA is strongly motivated in seeking further alliance and support for the facilitation of growth in the South African visual arts sector on regional and international levels by partnering with government and private entities.
Short term goals:
To provide day-to-day organisational, administrative and logistical support to our branches, members and communities we serve. This includes assistance with general questions on correct practice, institutional support, educational services and community orientated workshops, lectures and exhibitions.
Long term goals:
To become a conduit for large institutions nationally and internationally to set up communication with the different sectors in the South African visual arts industry. This includes universities, colleges, government organisations and international platforms such as biennales. To support artists in their educational needs through providing information on art workshops and courses.