The City of Johannesburg proudly announced the launch of the Homecoming exhibition, a landmark cultural event forming part of the G20 Summit program.
This exhibition celebrates the return of 145 artworks from the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) after an extensive international tour and marks a historic partnership between Standard Bank Gallery and JAG.
Homecoming represents three significant milestones: Return of the Collection – Artworks that toured globally, including Hungary, Italy, and South Korea, are back in Johannesburg. Strategic Partnership – A collaboration between Standard Bank Gallery and JAG ensures that Johannesburg residents can enjoy the collection during JAG’s refurbishment and Cultural Showcase for G20 – The exhibition positions Johannesburg as a cultural capital and a world-class African city.
The international tour included prestigious venues such as MODEM – Centre for Modern and Contemporary Art (Hungary), Palazzo Ducale (Genoa, Italy), Palazzo Barolo (Turin, Italy), and major South Korean institutions including Gyeongju Arts Centre, Busan Cultural Center, and Sejong Center for the Performing Arts (Seoul). In South Korea alone, the exhibition attracted nearly 500,000 visitors, reaffirming the global significance of Johannesburg’s heritage and strengthening the city’s cultural brand.
The exhibition was co-curated by Mr. Khwezi Gule (Chief Curator, JAG) and Dr. Same Mdluli (Chief Curator, Standard Bank Art Gallery), with assistance from Mr. Bamanye Ngale (Assistant Curator, JAG).
Executive Mayor Councillor Dada Morero stated: “As the City of Johannesburg, we are proud to lead initiatives that celebrate our rich cultural heritage and strengthen partnerships that elevate the arts. The activation of the Johannesburg Art Gallery through this collaboration with Standard Bank reflects our commitment to ensuring that art remains a vibrant part of our city’s identity. This exhibition is not just about showcasing masterpieces; it is about reaffirming Johannesburg as a cultural capital and creating spaces where creativity thrives.”
Yolisa Koza, Head of Brand Experience at Standard Bank Group said; “It is an honour for Standard Bank to assume custodianship of a collection of such cultural and historical significance. As South Africa hosts the G20 and B20 in 2025, our partnership with the City of Johannesburg reflects a shared commitment to public access, enabling young learners and older audiences alike to engage meaningfully with the city’s creative legacy. Culture helps society reflect on the present while imagining a wider future. Through this collaboration, we affirm the arts as central to shaping an inclusive, forward-looking community.”
Cece Smith 