KNYSNA - The inaugural Knysna African Arts Festival promises a lively celebration of indigenous culture, music and art at Loerie Park this Saturday, 21 March.
A major highlight of the programme is Nature’s Language - Birds of the Ancients, a one-day pop-up exhibition exploring the role of birds as messengers between nature, spirit and humanity.
The exhibition features a collective of artists including Stanley Donavin Grootboom, Michael Nyoni, Anthony Roach, Siphamandla Mphathi, Siphesihle Mrebi, Xolani Sibiya, Khangelani Ngcwembe and Gatsby Mpoyi, whose work reflects deep connections between people, nature and ancestral memory.
The exhibition will take place at the Loerie Park Tennis Club’s clubhouse, where the space will be transformed into a colourful creative hub featuring live painting, audience engagement, talks and interactive workshops throughout the day.
On the main stage, festival-goers can look forward to performances by indigenous music pioneer Dizu Plaatjies, chart-topping DJ Prince Kaybee, as well as rising talents including Anqobile Teyise.
The programme further includes the African Indigenous Renaissance Dance Challenge, cultural performances such as riel dancing, an African craft village, traditional food experiences, and a children’s edutainment zone.
More than just entertainment, the festival also showcases emerging artists developed through the African Indigenous Renaissance programme, aimed at empowering youth through arts and cultural skills.
The festival runs from 10:00 to 21:00 on Human Rights Day, celebrating heritage and the cultural diversity of the Garden Route.
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