Innovative craft collaboration unveiled at Constitutional Hill

A groundbreaking exhibition, Asiwele – Crossing over, is set to open on July 11 at 16:00 at the Women’s Jail, Constitution Hill, Braamfontein.

This innovative art aid project aims to empower and connect crafters across rural and urban communities in South Africa, focusing on the craft industries in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Gauteng.

The exhibition fosters creative relationships and exchanges between urban-based designers in Gauteng and rural craft groups, tapping into rich heritage, indigenous knowledge, and skills. Leveraging over two decades of experience and strategic networks, Art Aid aims to facilitate collaborations that will result in innovative, sustainable, and marketable products for local, national, and international markets, creating sustainable job opportunities for both rural and urban creatives.

Twelve Gauteng-based creative enterprises specialising in industrial and interior design have been selected to work with 12 skilled craft groups in the rural townships of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Through art aid’s intervention, these partnerships will develop mutually beneficial creative relationships and pinnacle in cutting-edge products.

This collaboration model is inspired by numerous successful initiatives where urban design and marketing have allied with rural skills, resulting in beautiful and successful outcomes.

Project objectives include empowering crafters by providing innovative design solutions, artistic guidance, and training programmes to enhance their skills. It aims to foster collaboration through the art aid platform, enabling the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and expertise. The project also focuses on enhancing the marketability of crafted products by incorporating modern design aesthetics and trends, thereby increasing economic opportunities. Additionally, it promotes the preservation of traditional crafts by infusing them with contemporary design elements and seeks to educate and raise awareness about the value of artisanal products.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the creativity and craftsmanship of South African crafters. The exhibition promises to be an inspiring showcase of innovative products and a celebration of our craft communities’ rich cultural heritage and collaborative spirit.

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