Art breathes in new life for kids in Brixton
BRIXTON – Local artist Tamzyn Botha speaks on how creating progressive spaces, that artistically challenge kids is something more communities should be doing.
A director and artist, Tamzyn Botha turned her personal studio into what could only be looked at as an art sanctuary for the community and, most importantly, for the children.
For the past three years, this studio has been a creative space for many artists to come and revel in while creating a piece of art that spoke deeply to them. She created an artist residency programme that welcomes reclaimers by buying some materials from them to create art. The art that took place at the studio peaked great interest with children in the neighbourhood. It is because of this that the ‘Waste Not Want Not’ kids art project was born.
In the past six months, what started off as a small group of children, has become a studio of 28 kids who let their freedom of expression reign free on Saturdays. To make every Saturday its own unique artistic experience, she has different local artists working with the children. The weekend is not the only time these youngsters get to express themselves, they also form part of a drama programme held through Well Worn Theatre Company every Tuesday. While every Friday you’ll probably find them at the Brixton recreational centre having a boxing lesson.
As this is an initiative that relies heavily on volunteers, expressing gratitude for the people who have stepped up to positively impact the lives of these children is something that does evade her. Some of the children who form part of this group are from troubled homes.
“It is amazing how people have managed to come together in support of this project,” she said.
Botha added that it was the lift club that helped make it possible for the children to have seen three theatre shows so far. The same community brought paint to the studio for the children to use, and eager volunteers at workshops have helped make a difference in the young ones’ lives. She explained that everything that has been done so far has happened quite organically.
She shared how she honestly thinks it does not take much to make a difference in a child’s life. “If every community just created a space for kids to go to where there are progressive things going on, like a challenging artistic space where they could explore, I think we would be okay, I do not think it requires more than that.”
Botha is in the process of setting up an NPO, so it is easier to get funding.
With hopes of making this a sustainable programme, Botha would like to implore community members to volunteer and artists to come share their skill.
Details: Tamzyn Botha 076 818 1716.
