Cape Town emerging artists shine at Comic Con

04 May 2026

Cape Town’s creative talent was on full display at this year’s Comic Con Cape Town 2026, where 10 emerging artists showcased their work to thousands of visitors this past weekend.

Supported by the City’s Community, Arts and Culture Development Department, the artists formed part of the Emerging Artist exhibition in Artist Alley, each hosting their own booth to present original work, build their brands, and connect directly with fans and collectors.

The participating artists completed a training programme ahead of Comic Con which helped them prepare their work for exhibition. The programme included workshops, mentorship, and hands-on preparation focused on presentation, audience engagement, and commercial viability.
 
‘Emerging artists bring fresh ideas and new energy to Cape Town’s creative sector. Through this programme, we are helping artists build their skills, showcase their work, and connect with new audiences. The City is proud to support these artists and invest in the future of art, while fostering creativity and innovation. The Emerging Artists Programme not only provides a platform for young and new artists to grow, but gives them a stage to show off their talent to an international audience,’ said Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Artists were selected from three Mural Meet Up Sessions, held in public spaces across the City. The Mural Meet Ups were designed to attract a wide and diverse range of artists and creatives working across disciplines.

Selected artists then participated in a one month training and development programme which included workshops, mentorship and hands on preparation, supporting participants to develop their artworks into products, strengthen their presentation skills, and engage confidently with the public.

Participating artists were further assisted by facilitators Clyde Beech and Robin Moodley, in preparation for Comic Con, through the review of their artwork, focused feedback and ongoing support.

‘Events such as Comic Con play a critical role in supporting training and skills development across a range of industries.  These events also open doors for diverse communities by providing exposure, networking opportunities and pathways into creative and commercial sectors that may otherwise be difficult to access,’ said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.
 
This year’s emerging artists cohort at Comic Con included several multidisciplinary creatives, mural and digital artists, illustrators, and some specialising in comics, anime and manga.
 
The 10 artists are:

• Malik Fredericks from Woodstock
  
• Darney Marks from Mitchells Plain
  
• Gabriela Valerio from Brooklyn
  
• Kyle Murphy from Athlone
  
• Logan Nathan from Kuils River
  
• Sachin Parbhoo from Plumstead
  
• Shadley Davids from Kensington
  
• Simbarashe Machona from Blackheath
  
• Thurston Jacobs from Kraaifontein
  
• Bhongoletu Maholwana from Gugulethu

Caption: Councillor Higham and the 10 artists who showcased their work at Comic Con.

For more information and to apply for the Emerging Artist Programme, visit the City's website.
 
For more information on these and other events hosted in Cape Town, visit Events in Cape Town.
 
 
 
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office