South Africa’s richly expressive ceramic art scene is stepping into the spotlight this winter as a curated capsule from the acclaimed Grounded Practice exhibition debuts at 100% Design Africa for the first time. Presented by House Union Block (HUB) in collaboration with Spier Arts Trust (SAT) and Spier Wine Farm, the collection will be exhibited at the Sandton Convention Centre from 24 to 27 July 2025, offering Gauteng-based art lovers and collectors a rare opportunity to view and acquire one-of-a-kind ceramic artworks.
Originally launched in May at the atmospheric Old Wine Cellar at Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch, Grounded Practice is the third annual showcase in a growing series dedicated to elevating ceramics as a fine art medium. The 2025 edition brought together 63 remarkable ceramic works by 42 artists from across the country. For its Johannesburg debut at 100% Design Africa, a curated capsule of 23 pieces by 18 artists has been specially selected for display at HUB/SAT’s stand.
“Ceramics often fly under the radar in the fine art world,” says Tamlin Blake, Chief Curator at Spier Arts Trust. “This show proves just how innovative and relevant they can be. These powerful pieces explore ideas of balance, belonging, and sustainability – themes that deeply resonate in today’s world.”
The works reflect each artist’s personal response to shifting social and environmental landscapes while drawing from the grounding, meditative, and tactile nature of clay. “Clay is an ancient and deeply symbolic material,” Blake adds. “It connects us physically to the land and offers a powerful space for reflection and regeneration.”
The annual Spier ceramics exhibition has become a key platform in the South African art calendar, promoting not just visibility, but legitimacy for ceramics within the broader fine art community.
“Our goal with the annual Spier winter ceramics show is to provide a platform to increase visibility for artists and this art form, which traditionally is considered a craft rather than fine art,” explains Mirna Wessels, CEO of Spier Arts Trust. “We will extend the impact through participation in 100% Design Africa 2025 and hope to not only give the artists exposure, but also to achieve sales on their behalf.”
All artworks on display at 100% Design Africa will be available for sale, and access to the exhibition will be open to all members of the public holding a valid Decorex Joburg ticket.
Exhibition Dates:
100% Design Africa – Sandton Convention Centre
24 – 27 July 2025
For More Information:
View the Grounded Practice collection online:
👉 https://houseunionblock.co.za/collections/grounded-practice
Explore 100% Design Africa 2025:
👉 https://www.100percentdesign.co.za
