Imizuzu Art Project, nurturing young talent and community through art

This wednesday we welcomed The Imizuz art project, where four artists; Zubenathi Filana, Phuzema Madikane, Lelethu Fundakubi and Phakamani Waka talked about the importance of this to the community and learn kids about art. 

The Imizuzu Art Project is a project where all kind of artists can learn and work on collaborations. It's an innovative approach to nurturing the young talent of Cape Town. The project, named after the Zulu term for shared moments of learning and reflection, wants to show kids the power of art and the importance of it in a community. They provide mentorship and cultural storytelling opportunities for 15 high school students from Chris Hani Arts and Culture Focus School. Under the guidance of Open Heart Gallery’s artists, they developed their artistic skills and personal narratives.

In August 2024, the project brought together 15 high school students from the Chris Hani Arts and Culture Focus School in Makhaza Khayelitsha. These budding artists were immersed in a month-long workshop designed to refine their skills and broaden their understanding of various artistic techniques. Guided by four esteemed visual artists, the students explored a diverse range of mediums, including intricate lino cutting, evocative charcoal drawing, and mixed media painting. The parents were also invited so they could see what their kids are making. 

Their work will be showcased in the "Unyezi" exhibition from September 6th to 30th, 2024, at Open Heart Gallery. This event highlights the project's commitment to connecting students with the broader community and offering a professional platform for their art, so they can really show off. 

Interested in the whole interview? Click on the video below! 

Presentor:  Samantha van Reijsen & Mkuseli Khusi Veto 

Written by: Samantha van Reijsen