That strange, star shaped building that houses the military is also home to a whole host of other militant types, but these ones protect expression and creativity on a daily basis.
Good Hope Art Studios is a conscientious, collaborative space that cares about its artists. One of their more poignant projects looks at meaning, memory and the moment.
“I never received the joy and peace in my own life that I desired. I then started painting still-life’s, to create joy for myself. Working on a still-life helps me to experience this joy in my own life and I long to pass it on to others in the world within my nation, allowing my paintings to bring this needed joy!”
These are the words of Samkelo Mangisa, once resident artist at Good Hope Studios, now also a symbol of what art offers life. The young man was killed in a car accident in August this year. Good Hope Art Studios, in conjunction with 38 Special, hosted a tribute exhibition “Never, Ever Again” – a solo show of his remaining work that took its name from the title of his last oil painting. It ran till November 11th.
Running concurrently was a Developmental Workshop Exhibition (1- 13 November 2010) displayed at Woolworths.
Good Hope Art Studios also recently collaborated with Philani Project involving ten emerging artists, including seven from Philani’ Flagship’s “fresco group”. They participated in a workshop 1st to the 30th of September 2010 with sponsorship from Truworths’ Social Involvement Trust. The participants learnt developmental drawing and experienced creative skills coaching, as well as familiarising themselves with a variety of galleries and exhibitions in and around Cape Town.
The frescos made during the workshop as well as some of the weavings and textile prints from Philani’s collection in Khayelitsha were exhibited in the Marble Foyer Extension at Artscape, from the 4th to the 31st of October 2010.
Visit Good Hope Art Studios and be inspired. In addition to being able to meet artists in residence as they produce their work, the Studios have expanded to include ready to wear crafts and gifts for sale.
