Fund launched to help emerging artists
THE Debut Fund Programme for emerging artists was launched in Port Elizabeth yesterday by Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa.
Speaking at the Nangoza Jebe Hall in New Brighton, he said the fund targeted artists across genres who needed a boost – whether it be in music, dance or poetry.
“With Business Arts South Africa, we have come together to say those who want to start something, especially the youth who do not get the opportunity to be known, this is what the fund is about,” he said.
He acknowledged the lack of funding in the creative industry.
“Everywhere we go, we meet these young people who believe they are superstars,” he said.
“Some of their work is of real quality and something you want the rest of the country to listen to, but they do not have any assistance.”
On an artists’ strike in Nelson Mandela Bay in May over lack of funding and unsuccessful fund applications, he said there would always be issues with funding, but sometimes stringent measures had to be put in place.
“These are limited resources and not everyone is going to make it, which is why the mechanisms are there to ensure we get the best of the best.”
Eastern Cape Film Forum creator Nceba Mqolomba said the initiative sounded good, but added: “Artists have heard such talk before.
“I remain sceptical until I see action, but in principle it’s good.
Business Arts South Africa head of programmes and development Lonwabo Mavuso said the Debut Fund was multifaceted.
“There will be technical skills and we will be training them around business skills and what it means to be a creative entrepreneur,” he said.
“There will also be a grant component which assists artists to reach the professional realisation of their careers.”