Association for Visual Arts, Cape Town

The Association for Visual Arts (AVA) in Cape Town is a key player in the local contemporary art scene. Established as a non-profit organization that relies on membership, AVA's main goal is to support and showcase contemporary art and artists from South Africa. Since obtaining official recognition as a Non-Profit Organization (NPO) in 2004 and later as a Public Benefit Organization (PBO) in 2006, AVA has been crucial in nurturing and exhibiting the talents of South African artists.

The AVA Gallery, situated in central Cape Town on Church Street since 1971, holds the distinction of being the oldest non-profit art gallery in the city. It serves as a prominent venue for promoting contemporary visual art, hosting regular exhibitions featuring a diverse range of media, from painting and ceramics to photography, installations, and performance art. AVA is committed to showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists, with a selection process that emphasizes discourse and experimentation, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art.

By actively engaging with South Africa's art community, AVA aims to contribute significantly to the cultural scene. Through its commitment to showcasing a variety of artistic expressions and fostering an environment of experimentation and dialogue, the Association for Visual Arts in Cape Town continues to play a vital role in enriching South Africa's contemporary art scene.