Cape Town: The creative talent was on full display at this year’s Comic Con Cape Town 2026. Here 10 emerging artists showcased their work to thousands of visitors this past weekend.
The event was supported by the Community, Arts and Culture Development Department of the City of Cape Town. The artists formed part of the Emerging Artist exhibition in Artist Alley, where each one of them hosted their own booth to present original work, build their brands, and connect directly with fans and collectors.
The 10 Emerging Artists who participated were:
- 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
Prior to this, the artists completed a training programme ahead of Comic Con which helped them in preparing their work for exhibition. The programme included workshops, mentorship, and hands-on preparation focused on presentation, audience engagement, and commercial viability.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham stated that the Emerging Artists bring fresh ideas and new energy to Cape Town’s creative sector. Through this programme, they are helping artists to build their skills, showcase their work, and connect with new audiences.
The City of Cape Town is proud to support these artists and invest in the future of art, while fostering creativity and innovation. The Emerging Artists Programme provides a platform for young and new artists to grow. It gives them a stage to show off their talent to the international audience.
Further, the 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 the disciplines.
Selected artists then participated in a one-month training and development programme which included workshops, mentorship and hands on preparation, which supported 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.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security – Alderman JP Smith stated that the events such as Comic Con, plays 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.
The 2026 Emerging Artists cohort at Comic Con included several multidisciplinary creatives, mural and digital artists, illustrators, and some specialising in comics, anime and manga.