Juandré van Eck, an Honours student from the Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha has been announced as the winner of the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition for his ceramic work titled Cycles of the mind.
Van Eck takes home a cash prize of R100 000 and an opportunity to hold a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2026.
In his statement about his work, Van Eck explains: “The ceramic artwork emulates the rhythmic patterns of breath. Two whistles positioned on opposite sides “speak”, one a cry of liberation and joy, the other a low, gentle echo of contemplation and unseen turmoil. Water, the essence of life, gives life to this artwork, offering it a voice through its gentle flow from one state to the next. It provides comfort and the promise that even in the darkest moment, hope can rise, a whisper becoming a triumphant cry of defiance”.
“When people interact with my work, I hope it creates a calming environment that speaks to the inner child, allowing for a sense of play in a world that often feels overwhelming. I envision my pieces being used in meditation classes or as a tool to connect people with nature, promoting mindfulness and presence. Even if it’s just for a moment, I hope my work can help calm the mind and encourage people to be in the moment,” said Van Eck.
This year saw a total of 903 entries submitted at eight collection points across South Africa, with 106 works selected to advance to the final round of judging and to appear in the 2025 exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum.
Pfunzo Sidogi, Chairperson of the Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition, commented on the extensive judging process: “It was an enormous privilege to engage with and listen to the greatest collection of art minds during the regional and final judging rounds. These esteemed judges, whose roles in the visual arts ecosystem range from practicing artists and curators to academics, auctioneers, arts administrators, and gallerists, do not merely select or reject artworks for awards; their efforts as adjudicators are actively shaping the now and tomorrow of South African art practice.”
Sasol has proudly sponsored the competition for the past 35 years, providing emerging South African artists with a platform to express their unique perspectives and push the boundaries of creative expression.
