Discovery and Nelson Makamo commemorate SAA’s 90th celebration with art in The Lounge

Johannesburg, 11 December 2024 - Discovery and South African Airways (SAA) are proud to announce an exciting initiative with renowned South African artist, Nelson Makamo, which will see a collection of his iconic pieces displayed in selected The Loungelocations at South African airports.

Creating a memorable, once-in-a lifetime experience, local and international tourists can now enjoy Makamo’s inspiring artworks before they embark on their journeys. Visitors to The Lounge will be able to view Makamo’s art piece, ‘Vision of limitless future’, which graced the cover of Time magazine in 2019. The special issue, dedicated to the art of optimism, was guest-edited by American filmmaker Ava Duvernay.

Known for his rich use of colour and expressive portraiture, Makamo’s work captures the heart of South Africa’s diverse communities. The ‘Variation Edition of Blue’ is a collection of silkscreen and giclee prints. “Blue is more than a colour for me, my blue theme is an ongoing exploration, and the part of the philosophy behind of my work and the era I exist in, a time stamp in our history”, says Makamo.

“Nelson Makamo’s art goes beyond being visually captivating, it tells powerful stories that resonate with our cultural heritage and identity,” said Dinesh Govender, Discovery Vitality CEO. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to promoting holistic wellness and creating unforgettable experiences for our Vitality members and visitors. Nelson is undeniably one of South Africa’s most revered artists and we are proud to be part of sharing his collection with all our guests in The Lounge.

The re-opening of The Lounge comes at a momentous time, as SAA celebrates 90 years of connecting people across the world. The airline has long been a symbol of South African pride and global connection, and exhibiting Makamo’s collection is a reflection on SAA’s ongoing dedication to sharing the richness of South African culture with the world. His work brings a new dimension to The Lounge experience, making it a relaxing, but a cultural destination.

“We are honoured to share Nelson Makamo’s collection with the world as part of our 90th-anniversary celebrations,” says SAA interim CEO, Professor John Lamola. “His art represents the vibrant spirit and optimism of South Africa, which aligns perfectly with our legacy of excellence. We look forward to welcoming our valued customers to The Lounge to enjoy this exceptional display of artistry as we continue to showcase the best of what our country has to offer.”

Makamo’s art transcends borders, inviting people from all walks of life to reflect on the beauty and complexity of South African society. Through this initiative, Makamo hopes to leave a lasting impact on those who experience this body of work.

“I always strive to treat art enthusiasts to be curious about themselves and their surroundings. I hope you see yourself reflected in this body of work,” says Makamo.

The following The Lounge locations will host Makamo’s art: OR Tambo International Departures, OR Tambo Domestic Departures, and Cape Town Domestic Departures. Nelson Makamo's artwork in The Lounge Video: https://youtu.be/0IgFzOcd7e4