The Pretoria Art Museum will host the launch of a new printmaking guide on 25 March 2026, bringing together artists, researchers and the public for a skills-focused arts event in Arcadia. The launch, presented by the Art and Ubuntu Trust, introduces a practical guide aimed at supporting both established and aspiring printmakers.
The event forms part of a broader programme to promote South African artistic heritage and indigenous knowledge systems. According to the City of Tshwane’s Museum Services, the initiative also includes a series of publications focused on local artists, creative practices and cultural research.
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Printmaking Guide Launch at Pretoria Art Museum: Event Details and Programme
The event will take place at the Pretoria Art Museum, located at the corner of Francis Baard and Wessels Street in Arcadia.
Key details include:
- Date: 25 March 2026
- Time: 16:00
- Venue: Pretoria Art Museum, Arcadia
According to organisers, the session will introduce the Art and Ubuntu Trust’s inaugural guide titled Introduction to Printmaking with and without a Press. The guide is designed as a practical resource, drawing on the knowledge and experience of practising printmakers.
Professor Nombeko Mpako will present the publication, alongside contributing artists Avashoni Mainganye, Grace Tshikuvhe, Luzuko Dayile and Nomvula Hoko, who are expected to attend the launch.
New Art Publications Highlight South African Artists and Indigenous Knowledge
The printmaking guide launch coincides with the introduction of a broader publication series focused on South African art and cultural knowledge systems.
According to the press release, the Art and Ubuntu Trust will introduce a collection of works that aim to document and celebrate the country’s artistic heritage.
This includes the Artist’s Speak Series, which features monographs on notable South African figures such as:
- Omar Badsha
- Sokhaya Charles Nkosi
- Sbonelo Tau Luthuli
- Lefifi Tladi
These works combine poetry, interviews and personal reflections, offering insight into each artist’s creative process and cultural perspective.
Exploring Aesthetics Series Focuses on Influential South African Artists
A second publication stream, the Exploring Aesthetics series, examines the work of key South African artists through detailed analysis.
According to organisers, this series focuses on:
- Ernest Mancoba
- Peter Clarke
The publications include timelines and critical assessments designed to support researchers, students and art enthusiasts in understanding their contributions to South African art history.
Indigenous Knowledge in the Arts Trilogy to Be Unveiled
The launch will also introduce a three-part publication series titled Indigenous Knowledge in the Arts, which explores literature, music and visual heritage.
The trilogy includes:
- Volume 1: Listening to Literature
- Features works inspired by oral traditions, including contributions linked to writers such as Keorapetse Kgositsile and Mazisi Kunene
- Volume 2: Defining South African Music
- Contains interviews exploring musical forms such as Marabi, Kwela, Mbaqanga and South African jazz
- Volume 3: The Hidden Thread in South Africa’s Visual Heritage
- Examines beadwork, ceramics, basketry, mural art and underlying design principles
According to the organisers, these publications aim to deepen engagement with indigenous knowledge systems and broaden understanding of South Africa’s creative traditions.
Pretoria Art Museum as a Hub for Public Arts Engagement
The Pretoria Art Museum continues to serve as a key public arts institution in Gauteng, hosting exhibitions, educational programmes and cultural events.
According to the City of Tshwane, the museum operates:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 to 17:00
- Closed: Mondays and public holidays
The venue’s role in hosting events such as the Art and Ubuntu Trust launch reflects ongoing efforts to make arts education and resources more accessible to the public.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
The launch highlights a growing focus on accessible arts education and local creative knowledge in Gauteng.
For residents, this means:
- Increased access to practical art resources and learning opportunities
- Greater visibility for South African artists and cultural practitioners
- Expanded public engagement with indigenous knowledge in the arts
- Opportunities for students, researchers and emerging artists to connect with established creatives
Events of this nature also contribute to Pretoria’s positioning as a cultural and educational hub within the province.
Pretoria Art Museum Printmaking Launch FAQ
When is the printmaking launch taking place?
The event will be held on 25 March 2026 at 16:00.
Where is the event being hosted?
At the Pretoria Art Museum in Arcadia.
What is being launched at the event?
A practical guide titled Introduction to Printmaking with and without a Press.
Who will present the guide?
Professor Nombeko Mpako, along with contributing artists.
Is the event open to the public?
The event is positioned as a public launch for artists, researchers and interested attendees.
What Happens Next as the Programme Rolls Out
With the launch scheduled for late March, organisers are expected to expand the publication programme and introduce additional engagements linked to the Art and Ubuntu Trust’s work.
Further events, discussions and distribution of the publication series may follow as part of broader efforts to document and promote South African artistic knowledge systems.
The success of the launch may also influence future collaborations between public institutions and arts organisations across Gauteng.
