Homecoming exhibition brings 145 masterpieces back to Johannesburg after a decade abroad

After a decade of Johannesburg’s prized touring exhibition travelling abroad, 145 renowned art pieces have finally made their way back home.

The artworks, initially loaned to Italy in 2015 and later to South Korea, are now proudly displayed at the Standard Bank Art Gallery in the heart of Johannesburg.

During the Homecoming Exhibition launch, 30 of the touring artworks were unveiled, representing centuries of heritage and creativity. From next year, residents will once again be able to enjoy this remarkable collection.

Having graced audiences in Europe and Asia, the exhibition includes works by famed artists such as Picasso, Monet, Degas, Turner, Rossetti, as well as many celebrated South African and international creators.

As Standard Bank’s Yolisa Koza explained, the purpose of this exhibition is not only to celebrate the return of the city’s prized collection but also to reignite the role of art as the heartbeat of Johannesburg and a catalyst for Africa’s progress.

Homecoming Artwork

The exhibition reflects a wide range of geographical, cultural, and historical contexts. Some pieces date back to the 17th century, while others belong to the contemporary era.

Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) co-curator Khwezi Gule explained that these works reveal a unique dialogue between artists across different time periods.

“Somebody who's practicing today may be talking to an artist who died 300 years ago. So, for instance, at the Johannesburg Art Gallery, we have collections by a South African artist called Johannes Phokela, who is a contemporary artist. But a lot of his artworks reference artworks that were produced hundreds of years ago. So, there’s a conversation going on there between European art and South African art.”

Gule added that he and Same Mdluli intentionally included more African pieces in the touring collection, which previously had a predominantly Eurocentric focus. The Homecoming Exhibition will also feature Asian works, offering audiences a diverse and richly layered experience.

The Importance of Art

“Art is a force, it is a heritage, it is a compass. It’s their treasure, and it says so much about our history, our joint history,” said French Ambassador David Partition.

Partition added that the century-old works now on display at the Standard Bank Gallery are pieces that continue to inspire artists today.

This sentiment is shared by Gule, who recalls how the artworks he encountered at JAG in his youth influenced his own career path.
“Just being in the presence of art can be quite a powerful, life-changing experience,” he said.

Gule emphasised that art not only has immense value for creators and enthusiasts but also plays a crucial role in preserving cultural memory.

JAG and Standard Bank Collaboration

As the metro’s oldest museum of its kind prepares for much-needed repairs to its aging infrastructure, Standard Bank will temporarily assume custodianship of the JAG collection while the building undergoes refurbishment.

During the launch on Thursday, the city’s Mayor, Dada Morero, assured attendees that renovations to the facility will be completed within two years a commitment he said the city is confident it will fulfil.