About the National Portrait Prize
PORTRAIT: The National Portrait Prize is South Africa’s newest and most ambitious celebration of portraiture, proudly managed by Strydom-Graves Gallery (Pty) Ltd.
The Prize provides a national platform for artists working across all mediums — painting, sculpture, photography, video, and digital. We champion diversity, uphold professional curatorial standards, and create opportunities for meaningful public engagement with contemporary art.
Vision
To position South Africa as a leading centre for contemporary portraiture, fostering excellence, diversity, and innovation, while elevating South African artists onto the global stage.
Mission
- Deliver an annual open-entry portrait prize recognised for artistic excellence and integrity.
- Showcase diverse and outstanding works across traditional and emerging media.
- Build sustainable partnerships with sponsors, institutions, and artists that support long-term cultural growth.
- Promote access and inclusion by engaging communities, schools, and new audiences nationwide.
- Enhance South Africa’s cultural reputation through credible, consistent, and world-class delivery.
Why Portraiture?
Portraiture is more than likeness — it reflects identity, culture, and the spirit of a nation. In a country as diverse as South Africa, portraiture provides a powerful space to share stories of heritage, resilience, and imagination, while connecting artists and audiences across generations.
The Team
Strydom-Graves Gallery
Co-Founders
Lizette Strydom — Partnerships & Programme Director
Kailum Graves — Creative Director & Curatorial Lead
Guiding the Prize’s vision, partnerships, creative direction, and curatorial excellence.
Project & Administration
Coordination & Entries
Manages artist liaison, application processes, logistics, and daily operations to ensure seamless delivery of the Prize.
Marketing & Public Relations
Media & Publicity
Leads press outreach, social media, and public engagement strategies to maximise visibility and build the Prize’s profile.
Finance & Governance
Accountability & Reporting
Ensures transparent financial management, regulatory compliance, and comprehensive reporting for sponsors and stakeholders.
Education & Community
Outreach & Engagement
Designs and delivers workshops, school programmes, and artist talks to extend the Prize’s cultural and social impact.
Advisory Panel
Expert Guidance
A rotating group of respected arts and cultural leaders providing independent advice on strategy, integrity, and growth.
Impact
- Artists supported: Honoraria provided for every exhibiting finalist.
- Accessible entry: Affordable entry fees and a free Children’s Prize (under-12s).
- Community engagement: Inclusive workshops, school visits, and family programmes alongside the exhibition.
- National recognition: A credible and prestigious platform for artists across South Africa.
Support & Partnership
The Prize is made possible through presenting partners, corporate sponsors, and in-kind support. Sponsorship provides brands with national visibility, alignment with cultural excellence, and measurable social impact.