COMBATING SOCIAL ILLS THROUGH ARTS

COMBATING SOCIAL ILLS THROUGH ARTS

By Kabelo Selebogo

Some of the murals on the wall at Kanana Community Arts & Heritage Centre done by local visual artists. Photo by : Kabelo Selebogo

The city of Matlosana - which is bordered by the townships of Jouberton, Khuma, Kanana, Tigane and Alabama - is blessed with artistic talent. This is despite the fact the city is dogged by such social ills as drug abuse and gang violence, which tend to obscure the incredible talent.

With Dr Kenneth Kaunda District being the only district in the province without a Mmabana center, the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (Acsr) has  launched the Kanana Community Arts and Heritage Center in Orkney.

The initiative is a partnership with Mmabana and the North West Federation of Community Arts Centres (NWFCAC).

The mission of Community Arts Centers (CAC) is to make performing arts, crafting, and cultural activities accessible to communities. Additionally, CAC’s aim to foster skill development, create new opportunities, employment and contribution to social cohesion and nation-building.

They serve as a foundational phase for people who desire to work or pursue professional careers in the arts and heritage fraternity.

Young artists from the Kanana Centre and the surrounding communities showcased their skills in a variety of disciplines, including drama, music, cinema, craft, and visual arts.

Mokula Ramabodu, a local visual artist, has dedicated his time to mentor the local youth.

"I have made the decision to pass on my artistic skills and acknowledge to young creatives for free, as part of mentoring and giving back to my township,” said Ramabodu. “The weekday classes commence at 15:00 comprises painting, charcoal and pencil.

“The colourful artistic murals on the walls are the collective efforts of myself and my visual art learners.”

Shuping Sebolecwe, the spokesperson for Acsr said: "These centres strive to identify and develop potential creative talent in many communities. There are currently 23 CAC’s in townships and rural areas that are affiliated to the NWFCAC. Individuals and teams can participate at the provincial, national, and global stages, therefore the platform is not limited to local communities.”