August House (Building)
| August House | |
|---|---|
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| Former names | African Sales building |
| General information | |
| Architectural style | Light industrial / Art Deco |
| Location | Johannesburg inner city, South Africa |
| Website | |
| augusthouse | |
August House is a five-storey historic art building and creative residency hub located in the inner city of Johannesburg, South Africa, within walking distance of the Maboneng and Arts on Main districts. Known locally as "The Artists' Playground," it houses more than 40 independent, pan-African contemporary artists in private studios.
History
Originally constructed in the 1940s as a light industrial warehouse for African Sales—a French perfume and fashion enterprise—the building remained deserted for years before being repurposed. In 2006, artists and founders Bie Venter and Maria Svane established the structure as an enclave and sanctuary for local artists.
In 2016, the property was acquired by new ownership to prevent potential displacement and stabilize the creative community amidst inner-city transitions. During this period, the layout was restructured to create more formal, dedicated studio spaces designed to support young, up-and-coming artists alongside established figures. August House has since celebrated over 15 years as a well-established community for local and international contemporary African artists.
Architecture and Setting
Spanning five storeys with high columns, authentic architecture, and large open-plan floors, August House blends industrial heritage with creative utility. It operates as a unique urban ecosystem characterized by a balance of inspiration and professional isolation in Johannesburg's inner core.
Community and Notable Tenants
August House has survived and thrived through a strong ethos of community-level engagement, peer-to-peer relationships, and mentorship. Many resident artists have ties to prominent local training institutions, such as Kim Berman’s Artist Proof Studios (APS).
Over the years, the building has served as a workspace and incubator for numerous internationally acclaimed contemporary African artists, curators, and cultural practitioners, including:
- Mary Sibanda
- Dineo Seshee Bopape
- Lawrence Lemaoana
- Nelson Makamo
- Kudzanai Chiurai
- Nicholas Hlobo
- Gonçalo Mabunda
- Mbongeni Richman Buthelezi
- Gordon Froud
- Joseph Gaylard
- Nontobeko Ntombela
- Gabi Ngcobo
- Jacki McInnes
- Bie Venter
- Solomon Omogboye
- Cromwell Ngobeni
- Themba Khumalo
- Diane Victor
Programming and Cultural Impact
While initially created to provide independent studio space for local creatives, August House has expanded its public and professional programming. All programming focuses on the support, mentorship, and career development of resident artists and the broader visual arts ecosystem. The building frequently participates in city-wide cultural initiatives, art weekends, and open-studio events (such as Contra Joburg), solidifying its reputation as a key pillar of contemporary South African visual culture.
References
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