OPENING EVENT23 November 2008 at 3pm at the WASS Art GalleryKliptown, Sowetoin association with the
Goethe-Institut JohannesburgThe programme includes a Kliptown photographic exhibition and workshop by Andrew Tshabangu, readings by Niq Mhlongo and German dramatist Tim Staffel accompanied by music from Sound Bites - a Jazz Trio featuring Bheki Khoza, Glen Mafoko and Xoli Norman.
An initiative by kunst:raum sylt quelle and jozi art:lab in association with the Goethe-Institute Johannesburg.
The Kliptown Art Project is inviting South African and international artists of all disciplines to focus on the square, the life around it, to look into its architecture, its purpose and its social meaning. It is an important part of the project to collect and share inside and outside perspectives. This project is also an initiative which offers Kliptown residents a platform to interact with local cultural groups and artists through workshops.
The project is curated by Indra Wussow and the dramatist and composer Xoli Norman. The Kliptown Art Project´s opening is generously supported by the Goethe-Institute Johannesburg and the WASS Art Gallery in Kliptown.
Kliptown is one of the oldest sections of Soweto, south west of the city of Johannesburg. In 1955 opponents of the Apartheid regime gathered on the square that is known today as Walter-Sisulu-Square to demonstrate against the regime and to declare the Freedom Charter, which has been one of the fundamental principles of the ANC. 50 years later the square was changed into a memorial place for the 40.000 inhabitants who live under poor circumstances, most of them in huts without electricity or water supply. The Square’s postmodern architecture and adjacent 4-star hotel is popular among tourists.
There will be a bus shuttle available from the Goethe Institute, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood to Kliptown at 2 pm. Please register by 20 November to join the shuttle.
info@jozi-artlab.co.za
