By Nangamso Mabindla
29 June 2004

AN exhibition of a variety of African craft by township artists is on at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery in East London.

The pieces form part of the African Culture and Community Development Association art exhibition, which opened on 24 June and runs until 12 July.

The gallery managed to squeeze the exhibition into its calendar, says the curator, Leon du Preez. "As soon as I found an opening I phoned the association, inviting them to exhibit."

Du Preez describes the exhibition as one of "great art, especially when you consider that this exhibition was rather rushed". He is pleased with the result.

"You can see how creative these young artists are - and who better tell about township life than people who have experienced growing up in there."

The works of art lead viewers on a journey into the townships and into the country's rural areas.

Two young artists from Mdantsane depict scenes that surround them daily. One artist, Msimelelo - known only by his first name - shows the vibrancy of life despite physical restriction in a piece called 'Scenery Park'. It shows two lovers in an informal settlement; they're holding hands and are oblivious to their surroundings.

Earlier the association had asked Du Preez to put the works on display, but the gallery had been fully booked. When an opening became available he contacted the association.

"It is refreshing art indeed," says Du Preez. The gallery gives preference to community projects, he adds.

Content varies from visual depictions of township life to craft made from leather and other materials.

"There is a wide variety of artworks to see," says Du Preez. He urges people to visit the exhibition.

The gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm. On Saturdays and public holidays it is open from 9am to 12pm, but it is closed on Christmas Day, Good Friday, New Year's Day, Freedom Day, Workers' Day and Youth Day.

Admission is free.
For more information about the gallery and future exhibitions phone (043)722-4044,
email annbryant@interkom.co.za or visit the gallery at St Marks Road in Southernwood,
East London.