Johannesburg — Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero today officially opened the Homecoming Exhibition at the Standard Bank Gallery, signalling a major cultural moment for the City of Johannesburg as it prepares for next year’s G20 programme.
The event drew diplomats, artists, curators and media to the gallery’s Simmonds Street venue, where the mayor led a walk-through of the exhibition and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to revitalising Johannesburg’s artistic heritage.
The Standard Bank Gallery, which has been a cornerstone of Johannesburg’s art scene since it opened its doors in 1990, provided the perfect backdrop. Over the years, it has hosted some of the country’s most important exhibitions, showcasing works by Irma Stern, the late Gerard Sekoto and David Koloane. It also made history by bringing original works by major 20th-century European artists to South Africa, beginning with Marc Chagall and later Joan Miró, Picasso and Henri Matisse.
Today’s exhibition reflects how Johannesburg’s art collections have evolved from being largely Euro-centric to embracing a more inclusive and representative identity. Curators have worked to highlight African perspectives and ensure the city’s artistic story speaks to all its people. Some works in the collection date back to the 17th century, offering deep historical layers to the showcase.
A key moment of the launch was the acknowledgement of Gerard Sekoto as the first Black artist included in the city’s formal collection — a milestone that reshaped Johannesburg’s cultural landscape and paved the way for future generations of African artists.
French Ambassador to South Africa David Martinon was among the dignitaries present. He expressed France’s support for cultural partnerships with Johannesburg and commended the Johannesburg Art Gallery for its ongoing work.
Mayor Morero used the platform to thank Standard Bank for its sustained investment in the arts, noting that partnerships between the city and the private sector remain essential in protecting and showcasing Johannesburg’s cultural assets. He said the Homecoming Exhibition demonstrates what Johannesburg can achieve when its institutions work together.
The launch forms part of the build-up to the G20 South Africa programme, where Johannesburg will take centre stage as host city in 2025.