The art of turning talent into a
DEVELOPING artists by sharing information to help them turn their art into lucrative businesses was the focus of the Business in Art Workshop at eSikhaleni New Hall on Thursday.
Creatives from diverse backgrounds were equipped with the necessary skills to manage their brands professionally and succeed in the industry.
The workshop, organised by the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA) in King Cetshwayo District is a joint venture with the KZN Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
It was not just to offer knowledge to emerging creatives, but also to ensure they are able to create their own revenue.
During his speech, master of spin and entrepreneur Ntuthuko ‘DJ Mo’ Shobede advised artists to first identify what they are and want to do, then focus on it.
“Once you understand who you are, your target market, the next thing is to formalise your work. Treat it as a business, get proper documentation. When you have all your documents available and up-to-date, you are able to apply for funding or other opportunities," he said.
He also advised artists to understand registration, submissions, invoicing, funding proposal writing and many other thigs that make their businesses proper.
Home-grown internationally recognised fashion specialist Precious Mahlangu of Precious Lulu Couture also shared her inspiring story of how she made it from sewing clothes in a backroom to showcasing them across the globe.
KZN Department of Sport, Arts and Culture representative Sne Vezi shed light on the role of CCIFSA and the department’s role in assisting them.
“CCIFSA was founded on the principle of creating a unifying vision for performing arts, visual arts, technical services and events, design, electronic media, crafts, publishing, cultural tourism, cultural groups, cultural heritage, ethno-tourism and arts administration.
“The mandate includes a contribution towards sustainable economic development and enhancement of job creation by preserving, protecting and developing SA arts, culture and heritage,” she said. She also shared other platforms where artists can source funding.