Celebrating Artistic Excellence: BE OPEN Names Artist of the Year 2024 and Launches Community Fund

In a remarkable recognition of artistic talent, BE OPEN Art has announced the winner of their prestigious Artist of the Year title for 2024. This online art gallery initiative, led by Elena Baturina's BE OPEN think tank, is dedicated to promoting emerging artists and providing them with a global platform.

The coveted title has gone to Imile Wepener, a talented artist and illustrator hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa. He previously earned the title of Artist of the Month back in April, and he has now triumphed in a competitive voting process to secure the title of Artist of the Year. In addition to the prestigious recognition, Wepener will receive prize money of €1000, showcasing the gallery's commitment to supporting artist endeavors.

Elena Baturina expressed her enthusiasm for Wepener's work, stating, "His artwork possesses a unique touch of magic that resonates with both the gallery's visitors and us. At BE OPEN Art, we take pride in highlighting exceptional young talents from all corners of the globe, offering them visibility and a platform to impact the lives of those who appreciate their art."

The initiative of selecting monthly winners has been a staple of BE OPEN Art over the past five years, during which art enthusiasts have had the opportunity to vote among twenty featured artists each month. The artist accumulating the most votes over the year is then crowned Artist of the Year, reinforcing the gallery’s dedication to community engagement and recognition of artists’ work.

In conjunction with this announcement, BE OPEN Art is excited to introduce their new Community Support Fund. This initiative has been established to provide financial assistance to not just the yearly winner, but also to all monthly winners. This move aims to foster greater connections and support between artists and collectors, enhancing the art ecosystem.

The first recipients of the Community Support Fund include notable artists such as Dora Prévost, Lisa Einkemmer, Brian Connolly, and Aigerim Asanbekova, among others. This initiative marks a new chapter in BE OPEN Art's commitment to nurturing emerging talents and facilitating communication within the art community.

Wepener's unique background includes a BA Honours in Visual Communication obtained from The Open Window Institute in Pretoria, where he also apprenticed under master puppeteer Toby van Eck. His skill set encompasses not only painting and sculpture but also animation and puppetry, allowing him to create captivating works that enthrall audiences.

As the art world increasingly embraces platforms that promote diversity and talent, initiatives like those of BE OPEN Art play a crucial role in ensuring that artists receive the recognition and resources they deserve. The Artist of the Year award not only shines a spotlight on individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists globally.

Looking ahead, BE OPEN Art promises to continue their mission of championing the arts, connecting artists with audiences, and providing a sustainable financial model that supports creativity. Through the Community Support Fund, BE OPEN Art embarks on a journey toward greater inclusivity and shared success in the vibrant world of art.

For more information on BE OPEN Art and its initiatives, visit their official website and join the movement of celebrating and supporting artists from around the world.