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Artworks for Youth

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The Nelson Mandela Bay township art training initiative, Artworks for Youth, is set to host its second annual public arts procession through the streets of Joe Slovo township to use art to profile issues identified by, and unique to, girls in the community.

Ahead of the impending 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children initiative starting on November 25 to December 10, children in the Artworks for Youth Programme and of the Joe Slovo Primary School have taken issues closest to them and channeled them into pieces of art that speak about their circumstances and challenges.

The art will communicate a strong message of support for the girls and women of the community who face daily challenges, including threats of violence, HIV and Aids, rape, a growing orphan phenomenon, sick families, and other problems compounded by poverty.

“South Africa is country with a history rich in protest, but we have an entire generation of children who aren’t aware that they have a voice, or how they might use it.

“Part of healing and coming to terms with trying situations through communication – and there are many methods, other than talking, that assist people in coming to an understanding about their experiences,” said Artworks programme director John Lombardo, who was recently voted in amongst five finalists in the 2012 General Motor’s Citizen of the Year Award.

“Art is one of those critical tools that assists in healing and communication. This procession is about building community solidarity around girls and women, showcasing the work of Joe Slovo’s young artists, and sending a message across the community that girls and women are loved and supported – and that they have a voice that needs to be heard.”

The Girls Procession takes place on Saturday November 24 at midday, starting at the school and winding its way through the streets of Joe Slovo township.

Conceived of, designed and built by students in the Artworks for Youth afterschool program, with the assistance of Artworks’ teaching artists, the procession will incorporate large-scale puppetry, colorful visuals, dance, song and a community forum, and will be performed entirely by students and Joe Slovo drummers and artists.

Artworks for Youth
2011 Artworks for Youth
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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.