Explore the extraordinary talents of women artists worldwide with us at The Nomad Salon, where celebrating creativity and empowering artists is our mission. Today, our journey takes us to South Africa, a vibrant hub of artistic expression and cultural diversity with a growing art infrastructure. We bring you a curated selection of five artists you absolutely need to have on your radar. From captivating narratives to thought-provoking explorations, these talented women are redefining the boundaries of contemporary art.
1.) Dominique Cheminais
Dominique Cheminais, "Hugh in the Strawberry Room" (2023). Oil on Canvas. 250 x 198 cm. Image courtesy of the artist.
Dominique Cheminais (b. 1984) is a novelist and painter from Cape Town, South Africa. She is a self-taught artist whose paintings captivate viewers with her distinct style, seamlessly intertwining elements of fantasy drawn from her literary works into vibrant visual narratives. Her artistic process, honed over a decade of writing, imbues her paintings with life by using her own books as creative catalysts. Through bold brushstrokes and abstracted shapes, Cheminais brings to life characters who inhabit dreamlike landscapes filled with whimsy and intrigue. Her large-scale oil paintings captivate with their vivid colors and dynamic compositions, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the fantastical worlds she creates on canvas. Cheminais's art not only showcases her technical prowess but also invites contemplation on the boundaries between reality and imagination, making her a rising star in the art world worth keeping an eye on. Read our interview with the artist here.
Follow the artist on Instagram: @domini_chem
2.) Yolanda Mazwana
Yolanda Mazwana, "Untitled Blob" (2023). Mixed media on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist and Kalashnikovv Gallery.
Yolanda Mazwana (b. 1996), a self-taught artist based in Johannesburg, is known for her evocative explorations of mental illness, phobias, and relationships, offering a unique perspective in the contemporary art scene. Her body of work delves into the complexities of human experiences, blending elements of abstract expressionism, neo-expressionism, and symbolism to create powerful visual narratives. Mazwana skillfully uses color and texture to mirror the ambiguous and often misunderstood experiences of individuals grappling with phobias such as hypochondria. Through her symbolic use of these elements, Mazwana invites viewers to contemplate the internal struggles and uncertainties faced by those living with such conditions. Her art serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of the human psyche, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and understanding mental health challenges in contemporary society.
Follow the artist on Instagram: @yolandamazwana_art_
3.) Nabeeha Mohamed
Nabeeha Mohamed, "Wanderer" (2023). Oil on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist and Gallery 1957.
Nabeeha Mohamed (b. 1988), a Michaelis School of Fine Art graduate from 2011, intricately explores post-Apartheid South Africa's identity and class dynamics in her paintings. Her vibrant compositions playfully critique the capitalist system and class privilege through bold colors and unconventional subjects. Mohamed's artworks blend floral motifs with human figures, symbolizing the intertwining of nature and humanity while balancing familiarity with a subtle strangeness that invites viewers to reconsider perceptions. This nuanced approach creates a harmonious visual dialogue between tradition and modernity, showcasing the intersections of culture, faith, and personal expression in a captivating yet concise artistic narrative.
Follow the artist on Instagram: @nabeeha_m
4.) Zanele Montle
Zanele Montle, "Untitled" (2023). Acrylic on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist and THK Gallery.
Zanele Montle (b. 1992), residing in Johannesburg, is not just a visual artist but also an educator deeply invested in the transformative power of creativity and learning. Her artistic endeavors are marked by vibrant block-colored backdrops that serve as canvases for her striking black silhouetted figures, capturing everyday African portraits in a celebratory light. Montle's creative journey is deeply personal, rooted in a quest to encapsulate the essence of her loved ones and family members, imbuing each painting with a sense of connection and emotional support. Her art becomes a testament to the strength found in familial bonds and serves as a visual homage to the people who inspire her most.
Follow the artist on Instagram: @zanele_montle_
4.) Laurinda Belcher
Laurinda Belcher, "Cool Migration" (2019). Acrylic, ink on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist and Salon91.
Laurinda Belcher (b. 1987), a painter based in Paarl, finds inspiration in the whimsical essence of her inner child. Her artistic vision unfolds as a collection of intricate narratives embedded with concealed elements born from her instinctive approach to creating art. Belcher's imagination thrives on transforming ordinary domestic objects—be it the patterns adorning curtains or the interplay of light and shadow cast by the morning sun—into sources of creative exploration. Through her adept use of acrylic paint and mixed media on canvas, Belcher crafts a private world within the seemingly mundane, inviting viewers to delve into layers of symbolism and personal reflection woven into each piece.
Follow the artist on Instagram: @laurindabelcher
Hello! I want to clarify that I have no affiliations with the artists or galleries featured in this article and do not financially benefit from any sales resulting from the provided links. If you're interested in the artist's work, feel free to reach out directly to them via the links above. Additionally, I offer an art sourcing service—contact me here if interested.
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XX Jenny