First Day Of Arts Week Indaba Kicks Off

The Arts Week Indaba, held over a period of four days and hosted by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), started on Wednesday 17 February 2016 at the Cape Town Lodge Hotel.

The event is being presented in an attempt to, among other things, expose young arts practitioners in the Western Cape to possible viable economic opportunities within the creative industries, to present a platform for them to exhibit and showcase their talents and to develop new partnerships and personal networks.

DCAS Deputy Director of Arts and Culture, Nerine Jeaven, welcomed all attendees present and said: “We are delighted to have you here today to participate and share in the 2016 Arts Week Indaba. As the Arts and Culture component we are committed to improving the quality of life of everybody, irrespective of circumstances, and affording opportunities to all. Thank you to everyone for being here.”

DCAS Chief Director of Cultural Affairs, Hannetjie du Preez, also addressed the attendees of the Indaba, encouraging them to continue doing their good work and making a significant difference in the Arts. She placed emphasis on the fact that the Arts are a platform for social cohesion and social inclusion, and for economic opportunities. “The Arts is much more than just the creative aspect of humans. It has a very strong economic role. In the Arts, you are able to learn during the creation of artworks or productions, and you have the opportunity to acquire technical skills and other skills such as financial management and people skills, which are vital to your success. Feed your brain with knowledge and skills, and please carry on with the good work that you are doing.” she said.

Let us continue to support the role the Arts plays in creating a socially cohesive, inclusive and connected Western Cape BETTER TOGETHER.