Art and music will share the spotlight at the 2026 Absa L’Atelier Art and Lifestyle Fair when Msaki headlines the event at Waterfall City Park, Mall of Africa, on Saturday, 10 October.
The South African singer-songwriter will be joined by Soweto Gospel Choir and R&B artist Elaine. Their performances form part of a day that celebrates 40 years of Absa L’Atelier Art, while giving visitors the chance to see work by the competition’s 12 finalists before four winners are announced live.
For Msaki, whose creative interests extend into the visual arts, the event brings two forms of expression together. Soweto Gospel Choir will add its unmistakable vocal energy to the programme, while Elaine is set to close the show.
The winners’ announcement is the fair’s defining moment. Three artists will become Absa L’Atelier Art Ambassadors, gaining access to mentorship, masterclasses and an art residency. A fourth artist will receive the Gerard Sekoto Award, which includes a three-month residency at the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris and a subsequent solo exhibition in South Africa. The awards are designed to give emerging artists time, guidance and space to develop their work beyond the competition.
“For 40 years, Absa L’Atelier Art has opened doors for emerging artists across Africa, and we want visitors to feel the impact of that legacy when they come to the fair,” says Dr Paul Bayliss, Senior Specialist, Art and Museum Curator at Absa Group.
Alongside the finalist exhibition, visitors can expect fashion showcases, food and beverage stalls, wine tasting and interactive creative spaces. A supervised area will offer activities for children aged 12 and under. The outdoor, cashless event also welcomes picnic blankets.
Event details
Date: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Venue: Waterfall City Park, Mall of Africa, Midrand
Gates open: 10:00
Music performances: 11:30 to 17:00
Tickets: R350 via Howler
Children: Ages 12 and under enter free with a paying adult
Food and drinks: Sold separately
The fair offers a chance to enjoy live South African music while discovering the artists who may shape the next chapter of contemporary African art.