Cash-strapped KZN art gallery needs public support

ANGELA Shaw, an executive director of the cash-strapped KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts Gallery, based in Berea, Durban, says the Covid-19 pandemic has represented one of the most challenging periods in living memory of the arts. 

Speaking to Berea Mail on Wednesday, 19 following a widely shared appeal for funding on social media by the KZNSA Gallery, Shaw said the lockdown had a devastating financial impact on their facility.

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“The pandemic had been terrible to us at all levels because we rely on people coming here selling arts and enjoy the beautiful things in the facility. All that stopped suddenly after the lockdown regulations were imposed. It is tough doing business during Covid-19 as people are cautious with spending during challenging times,” said Shaw. In attempts to revive the financial situation at the gallery, Shaw said a fundraising event was organised by a local artist in July last year.

“The cash that was raised at the event made a huge difference as it lasted us until December. Our annual December fundraising event did not make a difference as few people attended and there was no alcohol due to Level 3 restrictions,” she explained. 

Shaw said they are doing all in their power to revive the situation at the gallery including requesting renowned artists to donate their work. “We are slowly trying to get trading going again, but it is tough times and spending is definitely down. We are organising an art auction where high profile artist will donate their work for our benefit,” she said.

Shaw added that it was impossible for the culture sector to rely on the income during the challenging period. She urges the public to provide support by exploring and buying art works at the gallery. Shaw concluded that their events will be posted to their social media platforms.