THE 60TH ART IN THE PARK - A PROUD REFLECTION AND CELEBRATION

As Pietermaritzburg commemorates 185 years of existence, we reflect and identify activities that have contributed to this important milestone and note that Art in the Park was part of this proud history.

Founded in 1962, the show has not only stood the test of time but has also evolved to reflect demographics of the city.

While Art in the Park Festival is about Social Cohesion, it is also about destination Pietermaritzburg promotion and enhancement but it is also about the creative economy.

An independent survey found that direct economic impact to the city was R26 319 783 on Multiplier of 2.0 already in 2015.

Organisers and supporters do not only remember the good times but also the ‘not so good’ times like when the show had to close early due to inclement weather in June 2015 and of course the year 2020 when the show could not be stage owing to Covid-19 restrictions

Like in previous years, visitors to the Grand 60 exhibition can look forward to a rich tapestry of mediums, ranging from all painting mediums to photography and from glassworks, to craft pieces.

While many new activities are planned for the Grand 60, traditional features like ‘through the eye of a child’, a school art competition, whose work enjoyed a dedicated exhibition for the first time in the 59th Art in the Park, will be back.

High end craft products, supported by the KZN Department of Arts and Culture, will again join emerging artists in showcasing their works on this important platform.

Msunduzi Pietermaritzburg Tourism Association together with its traditional partners, Creative Arts College, The Witness, KZN Botanical Gardens and KZN Arts and Culture Department are excited and ready to deliver this milestone for benefit of exhibitors and enjoyment of visitors.