Umcebo launches Intellectual Property Exhibition
Invited artists displayed their art and fashion at the launch, which was followed by a panel discussion on the importance of monetising creativity.
UMCEBO Design plans for this year’s Intellectual Property Exhibition programme, kicked off with a business breakfast at Alliance Francaise Durban recently.
Invited artists displayed their art and fashion at the launch, which was followed by a panel discussion chaired by Raymond Perrier, Director of the Denis Hurley Centre, with guest of honour Rosemary Mangope, CEO of the National Arts Council, Monique Labat, craft and enterprise development expert, and professional artist, Xavier Clarisse. The discussion centred around the ability of the creative sector to monetise creative skills and the important contribution this can make to the economy and society at large.
The participants all shouted the praises of local artists and the vibrant art community in Durban, and the resounding message was to continue to encourage creativity in Durban through networking and banding together.
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“I encourage local artists to link with galleries and retail outlets to get exposure and promote yourselves on social media and in the media. You are the brand of your craft range or art and you need to network and promote yourself,” said Monique.
Xavier said solidarity within the art community was needed to know ‘who is who in the zoo’.
“Artists need to connect and work together, it is up to artists to put Durban on the map. I advise artists to specialise and become experts before exposing themselves to the art community,” he said.
Rosemary said artists needed to create quality work, and she encouraged uniqueness, originality and authenticity.
“Trust yourself, know you have something to offer and network and promote yourself,” she said.
Following the panel discussion, Brian Minga from NGO Foundation Florence discussed the work the organisation does to fight illiteracy in the rural areas. He said the NGO joins with fashion designers and artists to raise funds through concerts and fundraising events.
The Intellectual Property Exhibition will be hosted in October this year.
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