Local artists impress at department showcase

MBOMBELA – Local artists and craftsmen gathered at the city centre for a two-day showcase on May 27 and 28. Organised by the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation, the event catered for many a local’s taste.

According to showcase coordinator, Patricia Zitha, this was what the department had envisioned. “We wanted to bring something unique to the city’s art scene. We also considered it important to have variety.” Zitha was satisfied that both goals had been achieved. Jewellery, decor items, handbags, clothes and various forms of art were on display. “We even had fine art,” she said.

Portraits of well-known South Africans were displayed with abstract works and realist paintings. Wire artists worked on lager-than-life sculptures while exhibiting smaller items.
According to the department’s cultural officer, Sicelo Sibuye, another goal was to provide local artists with a platform to showcase their work. “We have so many talented men and women in our area,” he said. “They deserve to shine.”

He referred to a group of artists sitting behind him. One of them, Sfiso Sigudla, had painted a portrait of the premier that attracted much attention. Another man, Promise Ngwenya, produced wire art that could easily have been standing in a Gauteng decor boutique. “We hope to put them in a position where they connect with as many clients as possible,” Sibuye said.

A woman known only as Pam from Lapam – her clothing brand – stocked beautiful items that were sold at reasonable prices, while many local jewellery makers were offered the opportunity to meet and liaise with old and new clients. Sibuye and Zitha concluded that the event was a great success.