Biography: Jacques Kannemeyer
Jacques Kannemeyer's work explores the tension between human resilience and contemporary technology.
He began experimenting with linocut printing as a personal creative outlet after years of commercial design work, and has since developed a distinctive visual language that combines emotional storytelling with bold graphic forms.
Jacques frequently incorporates AI tools like MidJourney into his creative process, not to replace human creativity, but to challenge it. By using AI to generate conceptual starting points and then translating those ideas through manual carving and hand printing, he explores the evolving relationship between technology and human agency.
In 2024, Jacques was selected as a finalist in the Sasol New Signatures Exhibition, one of South Africa’s most prestigious platforms for emerging artists. He was also a finalist in the 2024 Vuleka Art Competition at Art B Gallery. In 2025, his work was recognised internationally when he was named to the Jackson’s Art Prize Extended Longlist — out of 12,964 entries from 129 countries, his work was placed in the top 25%.
Jacques continues to explore the intersections of traditional craft, digital tools, and social commentary. He sees printmaking not just as a technique, but as a form of resistance — slow, deliberate, and deeply human in an accelerating world.
Biography: Jacques Kannemeyer
Born and raised in Bellville, Jacques developed an early passion for comic art, a fascination that has remained a constant throughout his life. His love for the vibrant storytelling and intricate illustrations in comics inspired him to pursue traditional print graphic design in the late 1990s. Jacques' dedication to the craft led him to excel in the technical aspects of print design, particularly the meticulous process of setting up four-color (CMYK) print jobs.With the advent of the internet, Jacques seamlessly transitioned from print design to User Experience (UX) and Interface design, embracing the new digital frontier while never losing sight of his roots in print. Despite the widespread belief that digital media would render print obsolete, Jacques held firm in his conviction that print would endure and evolve. His career reflects this belief, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional and modern design principles.
Today, Jacques is particularly drawn to the lino printing technique, which evokes the nostalgia of the late 90s and early 2000s' print methods. For Jacques, lino printing is not merely a technique but an art form that honors the legacy of old-school printing while adapting to contemporary practices. This method allows him to merge his deep appreciation for the tactile nature of print with his expertise in digital design.
Jacques’s work is a testament to the enduring power of print media and its ability to adapt and thrive in the digital age. His journey from comic art enthusiast to a seasoned designer highlights his unwavering commitment to the craft and his ability to innovate while honoring tradition. Through his art, Jacques continues to celebrate the intricate beauty and technical mastery of print, bridging the gap between the past and the present.
Contact Details: 083 652 9662 | jwkannemeyer@gmail.com