Nominees have been presented for the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) 2026, which recognize achievements in the sectors of art, culture, and heritage in South Africa. The awards are held under the theme 'Celebrating the Creative Excellence of Our Nation' and acknowledge successes in three interconnected areas: talent, creative sector business, and nation-building.
These awards recognize not only artistic achievements but also the sector's contribution to providing livelihoods, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, social cohesion, and South Africa's national identity.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gethon Mackenzie, stated that NACA recognizes those who keep stories alive and strengthen heritage. He emphasized that art and culture are an integral part of the nation, not merely a luxury.
The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Piis Mabe, added that culture is the core of identity, and these awards highlight the work of artists, creatives, and institutions that connect generations and uphold the spirit of South Africa.
Nominees in the 'Outstanding Museum Institution' Category
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) announced the first nominees in the heritage, visual arts, and crafts categories, beginning a phased series of announcements. In the 'Heritage' category, candidates were selected for the 'Outstanding Museum Institution' award, which is given to institutions that protect, interpret, and present South Africa's heritage to the public.
The nominees reflect the diversity of South Africa's museum sector, covering natural and cultural heritage, regional history, and community-based collection funds.
Recognition in Visual Arts and Crafts
The first phase of announcements also recognized excellence in four nominations within visual arts and crafts, honoring galleries, artisans, curators, and visual artists who contribute to South Africa's contemporary creative landscape.
Nominees in the 'Outstanding Art Gallery' Category
Various institutions contributing to the development of contemporary art were recognized within this category.
Nominees in the 'Outstanding Artisan' Category
Among the nominees in the 'Outstanding Artisan' category are Madoda Phani from Southern Guild, Portia Tendzwaiyo from Sefakwana, whose works include woven lampshades, and Xolile Mabusa, known for his work 'Scotch Never Die.'
Nominees in the 'Outstanding Curator' Category
In the 'Outstanding Curator' nomination, Bridget Fakati from Nkosi Sikelel’ iAzania, Portia Tendzwaiyo from Sefakwana (for woven lampshades), and Tshegofatso Seoka, who presented the project 'Concrete Dreams: Journeys in Transit', were nominated.
Nominees in the 'Outstanding Visual Artist' Category
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gethon Mackenzie reiterated that the National Arts and Culture Awards recognize those who keep stories alive and strengthen heritage.
Winners in all categories will be announced at a ceremony on Friday, which will be broadcast on national television SABC 1 at 8:00 PM on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Nominees in the remaining NACA categories will be announced gradually over the coming days to give due attention to each area represented by the awards. The full approved list of NACA 2026 nominees will subsequently be available on official NACA platforms. This event will be followed by the South African Sports Awards (SASA) on Sunday, August 23, 2026, creating a weekend dedicated to recognizing achievements in South Africa's arts, culture, and sports.