Thokoza NPO unites artists

Paradise Gallery Market (PGM) aims to revive and unite local artists in Thokoza, under the theme ‘I Pledge to Save Art’.

The NPO held its first fundraiser event at Sikhona bar and bottle store, Thokoza, on November 5, in a bid to support destitute artists and provide a free platform to those who have been struggling to showcase their various artistic gifts.

Initially, the venue was set to be at Thokoza Auditorium but was changed at the eleventh hour after the organizers were denied permission to use it.

With support from a local business, they were able to secure a space they can now call home.

Event organizer and founder of PGM, Hlengiwe Khumalo, said some artists pulled out, others were lost because of the new venue and others were scared of it.

Although the fundraiser event did not go as planned, the organizers and artists deemed it a huge success as it gave hope and united local artists from different artistic backgrounds – from visual artists, actors, photographers, fashion designers and dancers, to music producers, DJs, vocalists and rappers.

“It was able to unite artists because when they arrived we were still cleaning. We got to the venue late at night and started cleaning it in the morning. Those that arrived early helped us to prepare the exhibition,” said Khumalo.

“People came to see what artists were offering and were excited that we brought arts to the community. They encouraged us to continue doing it.

She said the organization achieved its objective because it got a place to host its events and the community wants it to succeed.

“The community is helping us a lot because many young people are addicted to drugs and drugs kill talent. By hosting this event, we are uplifting talent. This will benefit the community and youth.”

Visual artist Constance Mokhabela said the event went well as she got to interact with other artists and draw inspiration from seeing artworks that were different to hers.

“I exhibited four portraits. Three of them were in a series of self-portraits drawings which were charcoal on paper and the last one was pencil on paper drawing, a portrait of my late grandfather,” Mokhabela noted.

She said her artworks were positively received based on how people who were there viewed them.

“The vital part of this event is to keep artists and young people inspired and keep the art alive in the township.”

Fashion designer and founder of Murula Designs, Lehlogonolo Kgola, said the event helps artists to create brand awareness and an opportunity to sell products.

“The Covid-19 pandemic and rising inflation changed how customers used to buy. Things are now expense, which affects our pricing,” said Kgola.

He said it also benefits the community as they get to know and learn new skills from local artists.

“The product I was presenting is Tas Street Gear which includes custom Tas geometric t-shirts, bucket hats and board shorts.”

Future events

Khumalo said they will host another art exhibition soon and seasonal Gallery Markets.

She invited Kathorus artists to see their new home where they can showcase, exchange ideas and support each other’s work.

Contact Khumalo at 066 203 9997 or email paradisegallerymarket@gmail.com.