SASA’s Members’ 1 2026 Exhibition did not begin at 6 pm with the official opening by René Snyman, but rather at 8 am, when volunteers and council members began settng up to receive the artwork. A well-oiled system was used to check in and organise the paperwork and artworks, while the panels were arranged. Before long, the space was alive with activity, everyone lending a helping hand as the artworks steadily poured in. Healthy snacks were provided, although the less healthy options were clearly preferred… poppy seed muffins with coffee… yum. And for lunch we were served a fresh salad prepared in the kitchen on site. The three curators, Christine Cherry Jones, Di
Ackerman and Ros Molteno, arrived with a clear vision and it was fascinating to watch that vision take shape. They carefully selected artworks that complemented one another, whether through theme or style, and wove together a display with a broader visual narrative and a focus on flow. The exhibition was officially opened by world-renowned artist René Snyman, who spoke from lived experience and encouraged commitment to the journey as an artist. Art, at its core, must come from authenticity rather than trends or market demands. Developing an artistic identity is one of the most difficult early challenges, but it is achieved by painting what genuinely moves and excites, not by copying what is popular. Chasing the market limits creativity, much like only offering people “chicken or beef” means they will never discover they might want salmon, new direction comes from introducing what is true, not from following what already sells. Work created with conviction carries emotional weight, and that energy draws people in. While technical skill is important, it is not the primary reason people connect with art, mood, storytelling, and emotional impact are what make a piece resonate.
Growth is continuous and requires adopting the mindset of a lifelong student. There is value in never being fully satisfied with one’s work, as that dissatisfaction drives improvement and keeps the artist moving forward. Mastery is a long-term process that unfolds over many years, often through rejection, hardship, and persistence. Skill becomes a key differentiator over time, as strong technique allows clearer communication of ideas and makes the work harder to ignore.
Learning plays a central role in development. Studying artists whose work resonates provides direction, but it is important to go deeper than surface influence. Going to the source, studying the masters behind those influences, builds a stronger foundation and deeper understanding. Painting from life remains essential, as it removes guesswork and sharpens the artist’s ability to see, interpret, and represent reality. While references can mislead, direct observation trains the eye and strengthens technical and conceptual understanding. A critical shift occurs when mastery is seen as achievable. Standing in front of a great work can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable parts changes that perception. Focusing on a simple section and realising “I can do that” transforms the impossible into something attainable. From there, progress becomes a matter of consistency, one brushstroke at a time.
Art is not meant to be held onto but released. Letting go of finished work allows it to impact others and creates space for new ideas. The artist becomes a vessel through which meaning is communicated, rather than the owner of the work.
Ultimately, art carries a purpose beyond the present moment. It has the ability to outlive its creator and influence future generations, and
should therefore be approached with intention rather than only immediate gain. Community and shared knowledge play an important role in this journey, as artists grow through connection rather than isolation. Through authenticity, discipline, learning, and perseverance, meaningful work emerges—work that endures and connects deeply over time.