In a city celebrated for its creative pulse, a remarkable new collaboration is set to bring together sculpture, ballet and philanthropy in a way Johannesburg has never quite seen before.
From 22 to 24 May 2026, RMB Latitudes Art Fair 2026 at Shepstone Gardens will host a first-of-its-kind fundraising initiative supporting Joburg Ballet — combining the imaginative artistry of celebrated sculptor Guy du Toit with the elegance and discipline of classical dance.
At the centre of the collaboration is Cygnets, an exclusive sculpture donated by du Toit in partnership with Everard Read Gallery. The artwork — edition 1 of only 16 ever produced — will be awarded to one lucky donor during the fair, with proceeds directly benefiting Joburg Ballet’s Pointe Shoe Fund.
Valued at R90 000, the sculpture represents far more than a collector’s piece. It stands as a symbol of how creative disciplines can uplift one another while investing in the future of young South African talent.
Inspired by Swan Lake Under Johannesburg’s Night Sky
The story behind Cygnets began in September 2025 during RMB Starlight Classics 2025, where Guy du Toit attended a performance by Joburg Ballet dancers as a guest of RMB.
Inspired by the iconic “Dance of the Cygnets” from Swan Lake, du Toit began imagining his signature hare sculptures transformed into dancers en pointe — playful yet graceful, whimsical yet emotionally resonant.
The result is a sculpture that merges humour, movement and craftsmanship into a work that feels distinctly South African while paying homage to one of ballet’s most recognisable moments.
Known for his highly collectible hare sculptures, du Toit has cultivated a loyal following through works that blend nostalgia, storytelling and wit. His beloved “Pez Hares,” inspired by childhood sweet dispensers, have become particularly sought after, with select works now reserved specifically for presentation during RMB Latitudes.
A curated collection of his smaller hare sculptures will also be exhibited by Everard Read Gallery inside the Chapel at Shepstone Gardens throughout the fair.
Art Supporting the Future of Ballet
The fundraiser itself has been designed to make meaningful support accessible to the broader public while offering donors the opportunity to take home a truly rare artwork.
The competition is limited to just 300 participants. To qualify, supporters must make a minimum R1 000 donation toward Joburg Ballet’s Pointe Shoe Fund either online or at the art fair itself.
Each R1 000 donation grants one entry into the draw, meaning additional contributions increase the chances of winning the sculpture.
For Joburg Ballet, the initiative carries profound importance.
Pointe shoes are among the most essential — and expensive — tools required by ballet dancers, particularly for young performers pursuing professional training opportunities.
Elroy Fillis-Bell, CEO of Joburg Ballet, says the initiative directly supports dancers who may otherwise struggle to access these necessities.
“We are deeply grateful to Guy du Toit, Everard Read Gallery and RMB Latitudes for this generous initiative. Supporting Joburg Ballet’s Pointe Shoe fund directly supports talented young dancers who do not have the means to purchase the essential tools of their craft.”
He added that the programme helps sustain development pathways for emerging talent while protecting the future excellence of ballet in South Africa.
A Celebration of Creative Collaboration
For organisers, the initiative reflects a broader philosophy behind RMB Latitudes — one where art becomes more than an exhibition and instead acts as a bridge between communities, disciplines and opportunities.
Carolynne Waterhouse from RMB Marketing says the partnership demonstrates the shared values connecting both visual art and dance.
“We are delighted that RMB Latitudes is hosting this partnership – a project that extends the largesse from one creative discipline to another.”
She added:
“Art and dance both rely on talent, discipline, tenacity, creativity and public support. We trust this initiative not only raises meaningful funds for Joburg Ballet but also celebrates the spirit of collaboration that keeps culture thriving.”
Public Art Returns to Sandton
Beyond the exhibition halls of Shepstone Gardens, RMB Latitudes will once again bring public art into the heart of Johannesburg’s urban landscape.
This year’s public installation at the RMB Fountain on the corner of Merchant Place and Fredman Drive in Sandton introduces a vibrant banner display bursting with colour across the precinct.
Adding a playful touch, a special edition Guy du Toit hare sculpture will overlook the intersection above commuters and pedestrians — transforming one of Johannesburg’s busiest financial districts into an unexpected moment of artistic wonder.
The installation continues RMB Latitudes’ commitment to making art accessible beyond traditional gallery environments, inviting thousands of passers-by to engage with creativity in everyday public space.
More Than an Art Fair
Over the years, RMB Latitudes has evolved into far more than an annual art fair.
It has become a cultural platform where art sparks conversation, connects communities and reflects the optimism and creative energy pulsing through Johannesburg itself.
At a time when the arts continue to rely heavily on public support and collaborative investment, initiatives like the Cygnets fundraiser serve as powerful reminders that creativity can do more than inspire — it can actively shape futures.
Supporters hoping to stand a chance to win Cygnets (1/16) can visit Joburg Ballet representatives at the Everard Read Gallery Chapel during RMB Latitudes or donate online via Joburg Ballet Donation Page
