WHEN the performing arts and entertainment sector celebrate growth and success in 2011, visual artists feel they have no reason to rejoice.
Some visual artists say that 2011 did not bring any big change and that the challenges of development and lack of platform for young artists were even worse this year.
Visual artists Wayne Barker, Mbongeni Buthelezi, Bonile Bam, Jonas Gwangwa, Kudzanai Chiurai and Nandipha Mntambo presented interesting exhibitions.
Buthelezi says there was nothing spectacular in the arts world this year.
"Except for a few exhibitions, it was quiet since March."
In September, the biggest arts event in Southern Africa, the FNB Joburg Art Fair, took place, but it did not live up to expectations.
When the fair was introduced four years ago, many people saw it as a step in the right direction. Usually, international art buyers feast their eyes on the finest contemporary African art. This year, however, few artists took part and there were not many works on display. The fair also lacked creativity.
Buthelezi says that the hype around the event has decreased because the focus had shifted.
"An art fair used to be a good platform for artists. Now, the focus has shifted from artists to galleries and how much money they make. But I commend the fair for introducing a fringe that give youth a chance."
Charles Nkosi, a veteran visual artist and mentor at Funda Centre in Diepkloof, Soweto, feels that 2011 was fruitful for young artists.
"We saw a few exhibitions and it was good to see young artists given a platform."
However, he says the issue of development in the arts requires the private sector and government to work together.
"The private sector must invest in the growth of the arts to give young stars a platform. We need more structures like Funda Centre that will be dedicated to the growth of the arts in South Africa."
Visual artist Abbey Mathabe believes that there is a great need for arts structures that would support upcoming artists.
Mathabe also blames the community and the government for the lack of development in the arts.
"It all starts with the community. If we had structures such as youth clubs, many young people would be focusing on their hobbies like art instead of walking around in the streets," he says.
Little to celebrate
WHEN the performing arts and entertainment sector celebrate growth and success in 2011, visual artists feel they have no reason to rejoice.
Some visual artists say that 2011 did not bring any big change and that the challenges of development and lack of platform for young artists were even worse this year.
Visual artists Wayne Barker, Mbongeni Buthelezi, Bonile Bam, Jonas Gwangwa, Kudzanai Chiurai and Nandipha Mntambo presented interesting exhibitions.
Buthelezi says there was nothing spectacular in the arts world this year.
"Except for a few exhibitions, it was quiet since March."
In September, the biggest arts event in Southern Africa, the FNB Joburg Art Fair, took place, but it did not live up to expectations.
When the fair was introduced four years ago, many people saw it as a step in the right direction. Usually, international art buyers feast their eyes on the finest contemporary African art. This year, however, few artists took part and there were not many works on display. The fair also lacked creativity.
Buthelezi says that the hype around the event has decreased because the focus had shifted.
"An art fair used to be a good platform for artists. Now, the focus has shifted from artists to galleries and how much money they make. But I commend the fair for introducing a fringe that give youth a chance."
Charles Nkosi, a veteran visual artist and mentor at Funda Centre in Diepkloof, Soweto, feels that 2011 was fruitful for young artists.
"We saw a few exhibitions and it was good to see young artists given a platform."
However, he says the issue of development in the arts requires the private sector and government to work together.
"The private sector must invest in the growth of the arts to give young stars a platform. We need more structures like Funda Centre that will be dedicated to the growth of the arts in South Africa."
Visual artist Abbey Mathabe believes that there is a great need for arts structures that would support upcoming artists.
Mathabe also blames the community and the government for the lack of development in the arts.
"It all starts with the community. If we had structures such as youth clubs, many young people would be focusing on their hobbies like art instead of walking around in the streets," he says.
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