Botanical artists are invited to submit artworks for the fourth Kirstenbosbosch Biennale. All artists are required to submit four artworks, two of which must be for sale.

In 2000, the Kirstenbosch Biennale – an exhibition of fine botanical art - was inaugurated, with exhibitions held again in 2002, 2004 & 2006.

In keeping with the vision of SANBI, both to celebrate and to honour southern Africa’s rich and varied floral heritage, the Kirstenbosch Biennale exhibits exclusively southern African flora.

From small beginnings, with 37 local artists’ works accepted for the 2000 show and 41 in 2002, the number rose to 51 in 2004 and 64 in 2006, with a growing number of prominent international artists participating.

The burgeoning interest in botanical art worldwide is clearly reflected in the ever-improved quality of botanical art being produced in southern Africa.

Artists are invited to submit works for the fifth Kirstenbosch Biennale, which takes place in Cape Town from the 9th to the 23rd September 2008.

The Opening of the Biennale will take place on Tuesday the 5th September, when the names of the medallists will be announced.

The panel of judges will include respected botanical artists and botanists.

In judging the works, judges will look at:

• The botanical accuracy of the works
• Sensitivity in the rendition of the plants
• The artist’s painting and drafting skills
• The composition of the paintings
• The overall unity & aesthetic appeal of the exhibit

Kirstenbosch Biennale 2008

Date: 9 – 21 September 2008
Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Location: Cape Town

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