To recognise the role of arts and culture in the growth of the economic, the City’s Business Support, Tourism, Markets and Agri-Business Unit will host the Art Bar Exhibition in an open space at 211 Florida Road on 4 and 5 June. Entry is free.
The festival aims to provide a platform for businesses in the sector to trade and engage with art enthusiasts, the public, and potential buyers to contribute to their growth.
Over 60 local producers in the creative space will be exhibiting. On display will be visual art, crafters, and fine art products.
The two-day festival will also include a formal programme which will empower and transfer skills to exhibitors and attendees. The programme will include an address by prominent crafter Hlengiwe Zulu who will be speaking on ‘The Secrets of Beads’. There will be a pottery demonstration, an interactive live drawing for kids, and an accessories showcase.
Exhibitors to headline the festival include Nela Kahle Art and Crafts, a skills development company that also manufactures world-class bead accessories and décor items, Gugu Mobile Boutique- famously known for producing quality and exclusive modernised African accessories, as well as Samke Boutique Craft which specialises in telephone wire products.
The festival is hosted in partnership by the Business Support, Tourism, Markets and Agri-Business Unit in collaboration with the Durban Art Gallery.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: “Crafts, fine art, and visual art continues to play a significant role in the socio-economic and cultural life of rural and developing communities. Over the years, crafts have become highly commercialised, which has influenced new understanding and interpretations. This in turn has become a reference for many fashion trends and accessories.”
The public is urged to attend the festival and support local creatives.
