Standard Bank Young Artist Awards
The Standard Bank Young Artist Awards were established by the National Arts festival in 1981 and recognise artists under the age of 35 across various disciplines including music, visual arts, spoken word, jazz, theatre, dance, and performance art. These awards serve as a crucial platform for identifying exceptional talent at a pivotal moment in their careers.
Selected by the NAF Artistic Committee, recipients of this esteemed accolade receive a cash prize, as well as a production budget to create and present their work at NAF, providing them with a vital platform to showcase their work. Their journey with the Festival extends beyond mere recognition; it serves as a cornerstone for their ongoing growth and development as artists.
Since its inception, the awards have honoured over 170 directors, actors, artists, playwrights, musicians, choreographers, and dancers, highlighting their significant contributions to the arts sector.
Standard Bank has been a proud sponsor of the awards since 1984, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to supporting and celebrating exceptional talent whose achievements consistently inspire and fill us with pride.
View our winners