Discover three inspiring art projects in Cape Town, South Africa, that redefine boundaries and ignite social change.
Cape Town, South Africa – Africa, a continent vibrant with diverse cultures and untapped creative potential sets the stage for an extraordinary celebration of art, innovation, and social change. In honour of creativity in Africa, we invite you to delve into the inspiring narratives of three ground-breaking art projects that epitomize the limitless possibilities of artistic expression and shape the future of art.
"Never Seen" - Capturing the Unseen Beauty
Unveiling the enchanting world of the unseen, “Never Seen” dares to challenge conventional notions of art by showcasing the astonishing talents of blind and partially blind people interested in photography and storytelling. Through their remarkable adaptability, these artists transcend the limitations of sight, capturing awe-inspiring images that ignite the imagination and unveil the hidden beauty within our surroundings. Their digital stories remind us that art knows no boundaries, transcending the physical realm and inspiring a new generation of artists to perceive the world through unconventional lenses.
This project comes as a collaboration between Karren Visser (UK) and Lois Strachan (SA), two blind creatives who wanted to challenge conventional notions of art by showcasing the talents of visually-impaired young people. The project reminds us that art knows no boundaries.
“In essence,” Visser says, “”Never Seen” challenges the notion that art is the sole domain of the full-sighted, and helps to inspire a new generation of creatives who might previously have felt excluded.”
"Nocturnal Creatures" - Triumph of African Art
In a resounding celebration of resilience and diversity, “Nocturnal Creatures” embarks on a journey that amplifies the voices of African queer artists. Through mesmerizing performances, this project empowers individuals to embrace their authentic identities, challenging societal norms and advocating for acceptance and inclusivity. It is a movement that triumphantly declares that love knows no bounds and that artistic expression becomes a powerful vehicle for social change. From dance to music to spoken word, these artists captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Nocturnal Creatures is the brainchild of Kieron Jina, a multidisciplinary artist and lecturer from Johannesburg, South Africa. “I wanted to explore the idea that love knows no bounds, and to use artistic expression as a vehicle for social change,” says Jina.
"Venice Biennale Delegation" - Cultivating Sustainable Art Spaces
In the heart of rural communities, the visionary “Venice Biennale Delegation” project fosters a revolution that intertwines art, culture, and sustainable development. By revitalizing neglected spaces, this transformative initiative breathes new life into villages, nurturing economic empowerment and preserving cultural heritage. The project serves as a beacon of hope, catalyzing rural development and establishing sustainable art and culture spaces that ignite creativity, inspire pride, and attract visitors from around the world. It has become a blueprint for other regions seeking to harness their cultural wealth and drive economic growth through art.
Curator Azola Krweqe believes it will revolutionize the way we typically look at rural communities. “We are set to host a series of skills development in the village where five local women will show off the power of art in their chosen medium. Our goal is to transfer skills to the youth, and challenge the accepted way that art has traditionally been exhibited in the Western world.”
Azola believes the project will attract visitors from around the world, and will serve as a blueprint for other rural communities who wish to hold their work up to the light.
These three projects, seemingly distinct in their focus, converge as beacons of inspiration, forging a path towards a future where art becomes a catalyst for change, unity, and progress. Through their unwavering dedication to breaking boundaries, amplifying marginalized voices, and fostering sustainable artistic practices, they ignite a renaissance of creativity that reverberates throughout the world.
All three installations were funded by the British Council Art’s Sub-Saharan Arts Programme with the purpose of epitomizing the continent’s artistic resilience and cultural exchange. According to Melody Sango, the Programme Manager for Culture Connects in Sub-Saharan Africa, “The open call which ran from July 2021 to February 2022, saw a number of grants ranging from £5,000 to £30,000 individually being administered in ten African countries and the four UK nations. Through these grants, creatives had the opportunity to partner to develop new pieces of collaborative work which would showcase different parts of the Arts sector in their respective countries, focusing not only on their similarities but also the differences that contribute to knowledge of the arts sectors in their respective countries”. The program has funded over 65 projects across Africa totalling over £700,000, 17 are based in East Africa, 25 in Southern Africa, and 29 in West Africa.
Artists, visionaries, and dreamers alike unite, collaborating across borders and disciplines, celebrating the richness and diversity of Africa’s artistic tapestry. Through their collective efforts, art becomes a transformative force, influencing policy, challenging perceptions, and shaping a future where every individual’s unique voice is valued and celebrated.
Join us in embracing the boundless future of African art, where creative innovation ignites social change, and the spirit of Africa shines brightly on the global stage. For more info, visit the British Arts Council, South Africa.
