Celebrating Emerging Talent: Announcing the Artist of the Year 2024 with Community Fund Support

BE OPEN Art Unveils Artist of the Year 2024

In an exciting development for the art community, BE OPEN Art, founded by entrepreneur Elena Baturina, has announced Imile Wepener as the Artist of the Year 2024. This recognition is not just an acknowledgment of artistic talent; it reflects the ongoing commitment of BE OPEN Art to support and uplift young emerging artists worldwide.

Imile Wepener, originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, earned this prestigious title after previously being honored as the Artist of the Month in April. With a diverse skill set that includes illustration, sculpture, animation, and painting, Wepener's work has captivated audiences and garnered widespread acclaim. His artistic journey included mentorship under renowned South African puppeteer Toby van Eck and formal training in Visual Communication from the Open Window Institute in Pretoria.

Elena Baturina expressed her admiration for Wepener's work, citing its enchanting quality that resonates deeply with viewers. She stated, “Imile Wepener's art has a touch of magic, and the visitors of BE OPEN Art appreciated it just as much as we did. We take pride in showcasing extraordinary young talent from around the world and facilitating opportunities for artists to gain visibility and share their artistic voices, influencing the lives of those who appreciate their work.”

Alongside Wepener's accolade, BE OPEN Art also announced the establishment of cash grants to support all monthly winners. This new initiative, funded by the Community Support Fund launched in January 2024, aims to create a sustainable financial mechanism to revitalize relationships between collectors and distinguished artists. The initiative not only boosts the visibility of talented individuals but also fosters a sense of community within the art world.

The inaugural cash grants will be awarded to a diverse group of artists including 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. This effort underlines BE OPEN Art's mission to enhance engagement and communication between the art community and collectors, ensuring that the voices of both artists and their audiences are amplified.

For the last five years, BE OPEN Art has invited art enthusiasts to participate in its monthly voting system where 20 artists are showcased and put up for consideration. The artist with the most votes over the year is crowned Artist of the Year. This model not only encourages public engagement but also establishes a vibrant platform for talents to display their work.

As the art world continues to evolve, the dedication of BE OPEN Art to championing budding artists like Wepener remains crucial. Through innovative programs such as the Community Support Fund, BE OPEN aims to foster an environment where art can flourish and young artists can thrive, connecting them with art aficionados and collectors who appreciate their contributions.

The announcement of Wepener as the Artist of the Year serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art and the importance of supporting creatives at the onset of their careers. As BE OPEN Art continues to celebrate artistic achievements, the future certainly looks bright for the emerging talents it promotes.

In conclusion, the recognition of Imile Wepener and the launch of the Community Support Fund signify a new chapter in supporting young artists. BE OPEN Art not only honors talent but also actively contributes to the growth and vitality of the entire art community.