Alex arts are ‘exposed’

The artistic creativity of Alexandra which is hidden in shacks may soon be on display for the public to appreciate its beauty.

Gom.Art core -llective an arts development agency is engaged in a proactive strategy to profile the arts products. The agency conducted an open window session to explore the “future of Arts development in Alexandra Township” on 20 March at the Alexandra ICT Centre, in Malboro.

Young and old artists from all genres – visual, fine, performing, filming and even the media as conveyors of artistic products, convened to chart the way forward.

Raw, refined and well-polished products made from all forms of material – canvass, candle, grass stalks, sand, macaroni and paint were on display. Most of them are of great quality to withstand rigorous competition.

According to Vika Mjoka, Director of Gom.Art, the gathering was a platform for a series of planning and strategy sessions to develop a long term vision to profile and restore pride in the profession.

“It’s time to brand and market Alex arts as a viable profession for creative individuals to depend on for a living. The arts sector is not regarded as a worthy profession resulting in many artists loosing interest in pursuing their talent. Those who persevere make very little income from it and are forced to depend on other income options for financial security like running trading stalls, spaza shops and as security guards,” Mjoka added.

Mjoka also stated that they will work with partners like GALXCOC and the media to brand Alex locally and internationally as a ‘hip’ tourist and art lovers destination.

Rachel Phasha from a local tourism agency made a commitment to support the initiative.They will consider subsidising tourist trips the ICT centre.

Themba Khoza of GOM.Art requested the tourism agencies to inform them of the trips in advance so that they can arrange grassroots cultural dance groups for entertainment.