Fine Art and Visual Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Fine Art and Visual Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a talented South African student with a passion for painting, drawing, sculpture, design, or creative visual expression? If you dream of pursuing a career in Fine Art or Visual Art but face financial challenges, applying for a bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be the key to unlocking your future in the arts. With galleries, design studios, educational institutions, and cultural organizations constantly seeking innovative artists, the demand for skilled professionals in visual and fine arts continues to grow. Fortunately, many institutions and foundations are offering Fine Art and Visual Art bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing financial support to deserving students who wish to further their education in this dynamic and creative field.
What Is Fine Art and Visual Art?
Fine Art and Visual Art are creative disciplines focused on self-expression, aesthetics, and communication through visual mediums. These fields include traditional practices such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, as well as contemporary approaches like digital art, photography, and mixed media. Beyond personal expression, art plays an essential role in cultural preservation, education, and social commentary, making it both impactful and relevant in today’s society.
Major Fields of Fine Art and Visual Art Studies
In South Africa, Fine Art and Visual Art studies cover a wide range of specializations, such as:
- Painting and Drawing: Exploring traditional and modern techniques in two-dimensional art.
- Sculpture and Ceramics: Creating three-dimensional works using various materials.
- Printmaking: Producing artworks through print techniques such as etching and lithography.
- Photography: Capturing visual expression through traditional and digital methods.
- Digital and Multimedia Art: Incorporating technology, animation, and new media in art.
- Art Education: Preparing students to teach visual art in schools and institutions.
- Curatorial Studies and Art History: Managing exhibitions and studying the history of art movements.
Career Opportunities in Fine Art and Visual Art in South Africa
Graduates in Fine Art and Visual Art have multiple career paths within the creative and cultural industries, including:
- Professional Artist (painter, sculptor, or illustrator)
- Photographer or Multimedia Artist
- Art Teacher or Lecturer
- Gallery Curator or Museum Professional
- Art Therapist
- Graphic Designer or Creative Director
- Exhibition Designer or Cultural Program Coordinator
With South Africa’s growing creative economy and strong global appreciation for African art, skilled visual artists have opportunities both locally and internationally.
Why Apply for Fine Art and Visual Art Bursaries in 2026?
Pursuing a qualification in Fine Art or Visual Art can be expensive, with costs such as tuition fees, art supplies, studio equipment, and exhibition expenses. Thankfully, various art schools, government departments, private sponsors, and cultural organizations are offering Fine Art and Visual Art bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover study fees, materials, and accommodation, and may also provide mentorship, internships, and exhibition opportunities to help students gain exposure and experience.
Applying for a bursary not only eases the financial burden but also connects students with South Africa’s vibrant creative networks, increasing their chances of success in the professional art world.
List of Fine Art and Visual Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Fine Art and Visual Art bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by leading universities, cultural trusts, and arts organizations. Each listing includes details on eligibility criteria, supported fields of study, application procedures, and deadlines, helping you take the next step toward building a career in the visual and creative arts.
Absa Fellowship / Scholarship Programme
Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary
Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Scholarship
Canon Collins Tom Queba Scholarship
Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation Bursary
National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) Bursaries