Art in Park a showcase for artists and chefs
PIETERMARITZBURG’S Art in the Park show is back and this year visitors can expect to see locally produced artworks in many forms on display – from oil paintings, charcoal and acrylic mediums, photography, to paintings in sand and more.
Additionally, the Chillanathi Cookout Experience and 033 Lifestyle have collaborated with Art in the Park to deliver an outdoor experience for show visitors who will be treated to cocktails, gourmet meals, sushi, coffee, tasty treats, finger foods, spit braais, cakes, desserts, fashion, fashion accessories and live bands.
The name “Chillanathi” is derived from a local slang word and means, “relax with us”.
This cookout will feature a food market at which customers can engage with chefs who will showcase an assortment of dishes.
The Chillanathi Cookout Experience is set to give visitors a family outdoor experience to remember with good food, fashion, accessories, wine, mixed with just the right music.
Visitors will be treated to a variety of dishes prepared by professional chefs while they enjoy the artshow and lifestyle experience.
One of the artists whose work will be on display at the festival for the first time is Ashley Munsamy, who says he is expecting a good response and enjoys having his work viewed by the public. Munsamy specialises in oils, acrylics and watercolours. He is versatile in all three and says his work mostly depicts the human spirit and life in general.
Sthembile Zondi, spokesperson for the KZN National Botanical Garden, which will host the event for the third year, says the show aims to give exposure to the work of local artists.
“It’s a great platform to showcase our artists’ talent in a pleasant and tranquil venue, which should help sales as the environment is safe and welcoming,” Zondi says.
“We foresee growth in the number of artists and new talents being developed due to the availability of such platforms.
“The festival also exposes art students and diverse, emerging artists in their future endeavours within the art space.”
Kevin Palium, chief executive of the Creative Arts College, one of the sponsors, says: “While one may find that a painting makes no sense, another person may value it so much as to purchase it for a couple of million rands.
“However, the true value of art is not reflected in rands, but in its ability to overcome barriers of separatism and prejudice.
“It need not matter whether you are a man or woman, young or old, black or white, rich or poor, educated or not, one can create or appreciate art in all its forms.”
SHOW TIMES:
Wednesday,thursday: 10am-8pm
Friday, Saturday: 10am-10pm
Sunday: 9am-4pm
ENTRY: R40, pensioners R30, children under 12 free
WHERE: KZN Botanical Gardens, Pietermaritzburg.
WHEN: May 2-6
The Botanical Gardens will be closed to usual public visits during the show, with only ticket-holders allowed in.