CALL OUT: TLHAGELLA INCUBATION PROGRAMME 2025/2026
News from Javett-UP
21 October 2025
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
After the success of the inaugural Tlhagella Incubation Programme earlier this year, the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett-UP) in partnership with the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) is doing it again!
The Javett-UP is calling for applications for emerging under-represented artists to participate in the second edition of Tlagella Incubation Programme. The initiative seeks to nurture and empower emerging artists, providing professional practice and entrepreneurial skills and create career opportunities through participation in an exhibition, with networking and income-generating activities.
Submissions are invited from artists residing in Tshwane and surrounding areas within Gauteng (with priority given to female artists). The programme offers participants an opportunity to develop professional skills, create artworks, and showcase their talent through a series of structured engagements.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The various phases of the programme include:
Phase 1: Professional Practice & Career Training Workshop:
50 Participants will be selected from a public call for applications to engage in the first phase of the programme in the form of a professional practice workshop. Guided by leading professional arts practitioners within the art sector, participants will be provided insight and guidance into the business of art and career management, with topics including portfolio development, basic legal agreements, guidelines on marketing and publicity and insights into networking and the art ecosystem.
This session aims to empower artists by equipping them with tools to effectively manage their careers, operate as businesses, and forge their professional identity through the intricacies of the art sector.
The one-day workshop will be hosted at the Javett-UP on Friday 28 November 2025.
Phase 2: Portfolio Development
Artists who attended the professional practice and career training workshop will be invited to develop and submit art portfolios, which will be adjudicated by an independent selection committee, and 10 artists will be selected to participate in an in-depth professional practice intensive, exhibition, and networking event.
Submissions will be accepted from artists who completed participation in Phase 1, by Friday 9 January 2026.
Phase 3: Exhibition and Networking
Based on the strength of their portfolios, 10 selected artists will be offered an opportunity to exhibit their work in an exhibition curated and hosted by Javett-UP. Artists interested in participating in this phase will be selected through a stringent application process and will be required to utilize the skills acquired during the Professional Practice Workshop.
Before the exhibition, artists will be invited to participate in a further workshop to facilitate understanding of exhibition practices and procedures, which includes documentation, art-handling, art administration, exhibition design and curatorial practice.
Featured artists will receive logistical support, personalised curatorial advice, a reasonable stipend to cover basic costs, and marketing materials, ensuring that participants receive comprehensive assistance to promote their work effectively within its extensive network of art patrons and buyers.
The announcement of the 10 selected artists that will exhibit their work at the Javett-UP will be made by 20 January 2026.
The professional practice workshop will be held on Monday 2 March 2026
The Exhibition Opening & Networking Event will be held on 18 April 2026, The exhibition will be on view for three months.
Phase 4: Art Commissions & Sales
Five participants from the exhibition cohort will be commissioned to create unique artworks that will be transformed into limited edition prints and/or a merchandise collection which will be available for purchase at the Javett-UP Shop and through online platforms, offering artists increased visibility and revenue generation through a profit-sharing agreement. The selection of the five artists for the Art Commissions & Sales project will not involve a formal application process. Instead, these artists will be chosen by a panel from among those selected to participate in the exhibition.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE
Apply online by clicking HERE
Alternatively, request an application form by emailing [email protected] with the subject line: “Javett-UP Incubation Application”. Please include your full name and contact number and a form will be sent to you.
Hard copies of the application form are available at the Javett-UP reception desk for those who are unable to apply online or via email.
Completed forms can be submitted online or returned via email or delivered in person to: Javett Art Centre, 23 Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, 0002.
Successful applicants will be notified directly.
The deadline for applications for Tlagella Incubation Programme: Phase 1 is Thursday 6 November 2025 at 15:00.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Emerging artists based in Tshwane and surrounding areas within Gauteng (preferably female artists) who:
Are between ages 18 and 35.
Have 2 to 5 examples of work.
Never participated in more than 2 group exhibitions.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Participation is contingent on the availability of funding and resources. Javett-UP reserves the right to adjust programme details as necessary.
Artists must adhere to deadlines and submission guidelines to remain eligible for subsequent phases.
Participation for selected artists will be free of charge with transport, food and beverages included.
Submission does not guarantee selection or participation in all phases of the programme.
Some workshops or projects may be open to the public at a nominal fee. If your application is not successful, we will inform you of opportunities available for participation at your own cost, ensuring you still have the chance to engage in the programme.
Applicants to the Javett-UP Tlhagella Incubation Programme must be 18 years or older in the year of their submission.
This programme is committed to fostering inclusivity and empowerment for artists with limited access to resources. While all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to under-represented female artists from marginalised or historically under-resourced backgrounds residing in Gauteng, with priority for those based in Tshwane and surrounding areas.
The programme is aimed at emerging artists 35 years old and under,, and preference will be given to artists who have not had opportunities to exhibit their work in solo or significant group exhibitions.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Tlhagella Incubation Programme is part of Javett-UP's broader initiative, EmpowerED: Art as a Catalyst for Education, Engagement, and Economic Empowerment, funded by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). This programme adopts a holistic approach to identifying, nurturing, and supporting talent within the visual and digital arts mediums by providing professional mentorship, and creating platforms for greater visiblity and economic growth.
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) is designed to support high-impact projects aligned with Canada’s global priorities, including gender equality, human rights, inclusive governance, climate action, and sustainable development. These initiatives are primarily designed and implemented by local partners, emphasizing community-driven solutions that address pressing socio-economic challenges, foster capacity building, and promote inclusivity. By partnering with local organizations, the CFLI empowers communities to achieve long-term, sustainable change while strengthening local impact.
The Javett-UP is uniquely positioned to address local needs and gaps within communities, making it an effective partner in delivering meaningful initiatives. By focusing on these needs, the impact of its projects is amplified, fostering greater engagement on issues vital to the prosperity and well-being of local communities.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the CFLI for making the Tlhagella Incubation Programme possible.
