Teaching Xhosa artists tech skills
FIVE young artists from disadvantaged areas received an opportunity to participate in a technical Xhosa art workshop which will help them shape their skills to get a more sustainable income.
Inkcubeko Nezobugcisa, a nonprofit organisation which promotes isiXhosa-language, arts and culture, held the photography workshop at the Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha for the selected Xhosa artists. They came from Khayelitsha, Mandalay, Philippi and Langa and were also able to hang their art in a local gallery.
Inkcubeko Nezobugcisa artistic director Zizo Bongekile Manona said: “Art has allowed for young artists to build up their self-esteem, which has meant their voices can be noted as part of a bigger global art economic exchange. To be able to make meaningful artistic contributions allows for a further social discourse between the young artists to help serve as social commentators, instead of falling prey to the many social ills plaguing youngsters in many communities.”
She said the overarching messages seen through the artworks revolve around the celebration of self, one’s cultural heritage and being proud of where we come from. “The best content starts with your surroundings, family and community.”
The artists were being taught about exposure, composition, lighting, portraiture, editing software and receiving additional instructions on social media monetisation, pricing of photographs and commercial work, to assist them with their future endeavours.
One of the artists, Khanya Nxu, 26, said: “This has been helpful because as a self-taught photographer, I had little knowledge on how to manoeuvre a camera. Inkcubeko Nezobugcisa’s programme helped shape my technical side and was a joy ride for me. It made me more confident holding a camera and has shaped my photography journey. When the basics are covered, everything after aligns.”
The artists will also be offered contracts with Inkcubeko Nezobugcisa following the workshop to photograph future Xhosa art and culture.