Occupying the Gallery is a visual arts based project space, mentorship/support programme, mobile studio, collective and artist residency established in July 2023 by artist’s Mary Sibande and Lawrence Lemaoana.

Its core function is to ‘occupy’ galleries/institutions, alongside emerging artists, to produce experimental visual arts showcases in collaboration with relevant arts and culture orientated partners. The main pillar of Occupying the Gallery are the ‘Occupants’. This is the title given to young and emerging (and often unrepresented) artists that ‘Occupy’ mentors, collaborates with and guides through our projects and programmes. Founded with the belief that art should be a living, evolving experience, the collective focuses on creating spaces where boundaries between artist, audience, and environment are constantly shifting. By transforming traditional gallery spaces into immersive, interactive experiences, Occupying the Gallery invites viewers to not just observe, but to actively engage and participate in the creation of art.

The work of occupants spans a variety of mediums, from traditional modes of visual art and installation to performance and immersive installations, all unified by a commitment to challenge conventions and spark meaningful dialogue around identity, space, and culture.

Through these projects and programmes we aim to bridge the gap of knowledge and access between emerging artists and industry/economical/entrepreneurial success in the local art landscape and beyond.