Local artists Mkhonto Gwazela and Banele Njadayi have just returned from a highly successful trip to Chicago, where they were part of a trade mission organised and led by Tradepoint SA Nelson Mandela Bay aimed at creating a sustainable international market for township fine art.
Tradepoint SA Nelson Mandela Bay showcased the artwork of 15 Eastern Cape fine artists, the culmination of a five month export project led by Tradepoint manager David Hamer with the support of Carmenita Redcliffe from the Municipality’s Trade and Investment Team. Over 160 works of art were shipped from South Africa to be displayed at Gallery Guichard to coincide with Chicago’s “Africa Month.” The mission culminated in a Heritage Day celebration of the art at the SA Consulate offices where the Consul General hosted the artists and invited guests to an evening of African conversation.
Hamer said, “Our local artists are increasingly being recognised in the international market, and with 40% of Chicago made up of Afro Americans, the demand for our art is growing across the City. The 160 pieces will sell for almost R1 million; in fact, during our short stay, we sold almost R 350000 of art, which exceeded our wildest expectations.”
Andre and Frances Guichard of Gallery Guichard are actively marketing the South African art throughout Chicago before it goes on tour later this year to Florida and New York They have already placed orders for more art work from the townships. Andre said, “The response to the artists and their work has been phenomenal. Banele and Mkhonto have shared their stories, their inspiration and their lives with the art community of Chicago which has generated remarkable results and added to the growing interest in South Africa and the continent.”
After receiving a personal welcome from Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the artists featured in the Chicago Reporter, were interviewed on Radio WVON as well as having their works exhibited for three nights at a concert featuring American singer / songwriter Prince. During their time in Chicago, the artists were invited to speak to fellow artists at Chicago State University and addressed school children at The Little Black Pearl School. Their artwork was displayed to art collectors over four nights of viewings in addition to the events organised at the Consulate and with Prince.
“This project has been immensely uplifting,” says Hamer. Our local artists have a real and substantial opportunity to grow their art sales and be recognised as world class. In doing so, this will help to generate employment, sustain communities and generate positive interest in our country.”
Alan Straton
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