ART IN THE PARK
THERE is much anticipation for this year’s Art in the Park, one of the country’s largest outdoor art exhibitions, to be held for the first time at its new venue from Wednesday to Sunday.
The venue is the National Botanical Gardens in Pietermaritzburg.
The 54th Art in the Park has been moved forward to avoid clashing with the Royal Agricultural Show and Comrades Marathon.
Dumisani Mhlongo, director of the Msunduzi Pietermaritzburg Tourism Association, said Art in the
Park’s new venue had improved facilities and infrastructure.
Apart from the usual fineart paintings in several mediums, as well as digital art and photography, the event will also offer a craft market, performing arts, children’s theatre and poetry.
Fine artist Julia Forman is excited about the event.
“Don’t miss this one. It is going to take place in a brilliant atmosphere that the whole family can enjoy. Also, it is known to be a very safe environment.
“This year Creative Arts College is also taking part because of the potential of the fair, so it could become an ultimate art festival that stimulates art appreciation, art as a career, as well as art as a medium to unify a nation.”
Visitors to the show can look forward to new facilities, but the key focus will still be on the art display.
Among the better-known artists exhibiting will be Nicky Firth, Sharlene Boaden, Gail Schaefer and Lieze Meyer.
Show times are 10am to 9pm next Wednesday and Thursday, 10am to 10pm next Friday and Saturday, May 6 and 7, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday, May 8.