American Express, operated in South Africa through its licensee Nedbank, amplifies its engagement with South Africa’s art community by sponsoring Johannesburg’s June edition of First Thursdays, taking place at Keyes Art Mile on 6 June.
American Express Card Members will be able to enjoy special access and discounts at participating galleries, stores and select local restaurants in the Rosebank district when purchasing with their American Express Card.
This includes exclusive access for American Express Card Members to the MESH members club, where one of Johannesburg’s favourite DJs, Franadilla, will be spinning tunes, and award-winning mixologist Lucy Magic will be offering a special American Express First Thursdays Johannesburg cocktail for one night only.
The evening’s festivities will be set against the backdrop of the 2023 Amex ZA Graphic Arts Challenge winner, Mark Modimola’s artwork that spans the exterior facade of the building at Keyes Art Mile, ensuring even greater immersion for guests in the local art landscape.
This landscape includes new exhibition openings at BKhz, and Gallery 1 on the ground floor of Keyes Art Mile. There will also be panel discussion, hosted by IQOQO on creativity and AI as well as ongoing exhibitions by Bambo Sibiya at CIRCA, and Michael MacGarry at Everard Read.
Additionally, the June edition of First Thursdays will also see the Johannesburg launch of The Manor exhibition, Sibadala Sibancane. Showcasing the work of photographers Mikhailia Petersen and Lebogang Tlhako, the exhibition coincides with the launch of Reflecting B(l)ack, a photography book by The Manor. Curated by The Manor founder and award-winning artist, Trevor Stuurman, Reflecting B(l)ack features the works of lauded photographers from across the continent, including the likes of Andile Buka, Athi-Patra Ruga, Imraan Christian, and more.
Briana Wilsey, Vice President and General Manager of Global Network Services EMEA at American Express, says: “By offering unique opportunities to engage with the arts, we aim to enhance the overall experience for Amex Card Members in South Africa while simultaneously contributing to the growth and sustainability of the local arts industry.”
“Our sponsorship of First Thursdays is driven by our belief in the importance of supporting the arts and in fostering greater engagement within our clients and community,” states Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Retail and Business Banking Marketing at Nedbank. “First Thursdays at Keyes Art Mile offers a dynamic opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural depth of Johannesburg and inspire its members to come together.”
More detailed programme and artist information can be found at keyesartmile.co.za. Learn more about American Express Cards at americanexpress.co.za
For media queries, please contact emma@narrativepr.co.za.
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