The Provincial Heritage Resources Authority of Gauteng has given the City of Johannesburg the go-ahead for the structural work required to restore the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG). Together with approvals for traffic flow, stormwater, fire safety, water use and land surveying, this clears the way for the project to move ahead smoothly.

“This is a major milestone for the Johannesburg Art Gallery,” said Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero. “JAG is not only a home for important artworks but a guardian of our city’s history and heritage. These approvals allow us to proceed confidently with a restoration plan that protects this cultural treasure for generations to come.”

With work led by the Johannesburg Development Agency, the City has already completed detailed structural assessments with the guidance of a heritage specialist. To safeguard JAG’s collection during the restoration, the City has prepared three temporary storage facilities at the Johannesburg City Library, Museum Africa and the Brixton Multipurpose Centre. These sites meet the required insurance, environmental and security standards, and the City is working closely with the South African Heritage Resources Agency to ensure full compliance.

Once the temporary facilities are operational, stakeholders will be invited to inspect them. The City also plans to keep JAG active during the restoration through exhibitions, public programmes and educational activities across Johannesburg. The JAG paper collection will be accessible at the Johannesburg City Library.

A special exhibition of 145 artworks returned from South Korea will also be showcased in partnership with Standard Bank during the G20 Summit. “This is an excellent opportunity to share Johannesburg’s cultural richness with the world,” the Mayor said.

The City has strengthened governance through the Art Gallery Committee, which includes government and civil society representatives. The committee held its first meeting on 23 October 2025 and approved the City’s Relocation and Refurbishment Plan. The City is also renewing its partnership with the Anglo-American Johannesburg Centenary Trust to reinforce collaborative support for JAG.

The City will soon convene a major seminar bringing together heritage experts, academics, arts practitioners and Friends of JAG to shape a sustainable long-term vision for the gallery.

“As we restore JAG,” said Mayor Morero, “we honour those who built our cultural foundations while creating space for new imagination. Together we will return JAG to its rightful place as Johannesburg’s leading art institution and a symbol of pride for our city.”