Five local artists showcased their work during the Investec Cape Town Art Fair this weekend.
Ayabonga Ntshongwana from Langa, Yamkela Madlevu from Khayelitsha, Hari Lualhati from Parklands, Bevan Blankenberg from Northpine, and Fazlin Hoosain from Woodstock are all part of the Emerging Artist Programme (EAP) within the City of Cape Town’s Arts and Culture Branch.
Also read: Unbound perspectives at the Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024
The EAP supports under-resourced artists during the early stages of their careers by providing them with training, mentorship, networking opportunities and exhibition platforms.
‘The five chosen artists have previously participated in our training, mentorship, and exhibition opportunities and I am incredibly proud that they were selected to showcase at a dedicated booth at the fair,’ says the City’s Mayco member for community services and health, Patricia van der Ross.
‘They are immensely talented and attended a two-day exhibition readiness workshop to equip them with the necessary skills to get the most out of their participation. They are ready to make waves in the art world.’
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Ayabonga Ntshongwana from Langa
‘I joined the EAP in 2019, and it’s been a great experience. I learned how to take my art career more seriously, gained knowledge and made connections that helped me express myself on a bigger scale. Being part of the Art Fair 2024 is a big deal for my career and I’m excited to show the world what I’ve created.’
Yamkela Madlevu from Khayelitsha
‘As a young visual artist, I encountered experienced artists in the industry who suggested that I join the City’s EAP. The workshops provided valuable insights into the dos and don’ts of the art industry. This is a significant honour as it means representing myself and the programme, and I hope it will open future opportunities.’
Hari Lualhati from Parklands
‘Being accepted into the EAP started a big journey for me. This experience has helped me grow a lot in my art career. Looking ahead, my plan is simple – keep making great art, putting my heart and soul into each piece, driven by the passion I found in this amazing programme.’
Bevan Blankenberg from Northpine
‘When I was at the EAP workshop last year, I learned useful skills that made my art look more professional. The workshop taught me about the art market, getting ready for exhibitions, and important things new artists should know to improve.’
Fazlin Hoosain from Woodstock
‘Working with the EAP has been great for me. These events helped me grow as an artist and a creative entrepreneur. I’m excited to be part of the fair and with the support and guidance of the EAP, I’m eager to explore my full potential. This opportunity will not only help me grow as an artist but also give me the tools to succeed as a businessperson in the ever-changing world of art and design.’
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Picture: City of Cape Town / Facebook