BE OPEN Art Unveils 2024 Artist of the Year and Community Fund Support
BE OPEN Art Celebrates 2024 Artist of the Year
On January 9, 2025, BE OPEN Art, an online gallery initiative by the BE OPEN think tank led by Elena Baturina, proudly announced the recipient of the coveted title of 2024 Artist of the Year. This year, the talented South African artist, Imile Wepener, received the honor following a vote that showcased the community's appreciation for his enchanting and imaginative works. In addition, Wepener is awarded a prize of €1,000 for this recognition.
Imile Wepener, hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, pursued a degree in visual communication at the Open Window Institute in Pretoria. In his artistic journey, he has acquired diverse skills, encompassing puppet-making under the tutelage of renowned South African puppeteer Toby van Eck, alongside his expertise in sculpture, animation, and painting. Currently working as a freelance illustrator, Wepener's artistic style combines both traditional and contemporary techniques to captivate viewers.
Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, reflected on the significance of Wepener's achievements, noting, "Imile Wepener's work possesses a touch of magic, which our visitors have deeply appreciated, just as we have. BE OPEN Art is dedicated to showcasing remarkable young talents from around the globe and aiding artists in sharing their voices and influencing the art landscape that speaks to the lives of those who admire it." The platform has opened avenues for countless emerging artists, allowing them to garner attention and appreciation.
To foster an environment that enriches emerging talents, BE OPEN Art has actively engaged audiences for over five years by inviting art enthusiasts to vote for their favorite artist among twenty featured in the gallery each month. The artist with the most votes throughout the year is declared the Artist of the Year, celebrating their accomplishments and contributions to the art community.
In addition to honoring Wepener, BE OPEN Art unveiled its new Community Support Fund initiative, aimed at providing a more extensive financial safety net for featured artists and enhancing engagement between collectors and the creatives they admire. Starting this year, cash grants will be awarded to all monthly winners, fostering a spirit of mutual support within the artistic community. This initiative was established to revive connections and interactions, crucial for sustaining a healthy art ecosystem in contemporary settings.
The artists benefiting from this inaugural initiative will include a diverse range of talent: Dora Prévost, Lisa Einkemmer, Brian Connolly, Aigerim Asanbekova, Esinulo Chiamaka Praise, S.M. Khayyam, Amy Lewis, Akindele John, Ahsan Memon, Julia Bartolini, and Yibei Liu. These artists represent the bright future of creativity, each contributing their unique voices to the art world.
In conclusion, BE OPEN Art's recognition of the 2024 Artist of the Year and the institution of the Community Support Fund mark significant advancements in promoting emerging talent and securing a sustainable future for the art community. Through their initiatives, they are not just celebrating art but also fostering a supportive network that allows creativity to thrive and flourish.