Art Crosses Borders-Conversations goes to Con Hill

Art Crosses Borders-Conversations is the newest exhibition to be put on display at the historically significant venue that is Constitution Hill.

Deliberately placed in Constitution Hill’s Old Fort Mess Hall, the exhibition tells a story through art within the same walls where many tragic stories of racism and inequality originated long before.

The exhibition was brought to the venue by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation and it holds a number of collectors’ pieces, but also many new pieces from Alexandra artists. The aim of the exhibition is to transcend geographical boundaries and teach people from all walks of life that South Africa has a rich history – one that can be upheld through art from the people who have witnessed hardships, and those who have not.

The foundation is dedicated to preserving the country’s history in the form of art and they were only too happy to have Vika Mjoka, founder and chairman of the Art Smart Brand, an organisation dedicated to branding Alexandra township as a rich and vibrant art market.

“It wasn’t just about sponsorship or just about funding, it was about engaging with issues of society,” Mjoka said, explaining the nature of his relationship with the foundation.

Reuben Phasha, the heritage director of Constitution Hill, explained how art contributed to the heritage of South Africa today.

“The art is important because it asks the question ‘how do we bridge the gap between the aspirations stated in The Constitution from years back to today, and how do we achieve them’.”

Curator of the exhibition, Mandy Jacobson, divulged to City Buzz that next year in March, the exhibition will be held in the cells at Constitution Hill in celebration of Constitution Hill’s 20th birthday since transforming into the heritage site it is today.

The exhibition runs until 15 November and is definitely not to be missed.

Details: www.constitutionhill.org.za