ART IN SOUTH AFRICA’S YOUTH

By Accra Maweya        ntlhari.accra@Gmail.com   

Art is the expression or application of creative skill and imagination in a visual form such as paintings, music, drawings, sculptures and etc. since the past decades we have been surrounded by art even when we are not aware of it. You don’t have to have had a good education or money to be an artist because it all starts with your ability to be creative. Examples of artists in South Africa are Jane Alexander, Walter Battiss, Marlene Dumas and the list goes on.

Art may not be seen as important as it is in South African townships like in other countries because we have never realized the benefits or the importance of art. Art is very important because it relieves stress, it boosts our confidence, helps to express ourselves and our emotions, gives us the ability to show our talent and most importantly it makes people happy.

Art is not only for fun or to enhance creativity but we can also benefit from art even financially if we want to sell it to the public. It improves academic performance, builds confidence, motor skills, visual learning and decision making.

Art has changed society in many ways for more than hundreds of years.according to 
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130410082154.htm 
Art influences society by changing opinions, instilling values and translating experiences across space and time. Research has shown art affects the fundamental sense of self. Art in this sense is communication, it allows people from different cultures and different times to communicate with each other via images, sounds and stories. Art is often a promoter of social change and It can give voice to the politically or socially disadvantaged. A song, film or novel can rouse emotions in those who encounter it, inspiring them to rally for change. 

Every person is born with the ability to be creative so regardless of age you can still enhance your creativity by going to schools that offer art courses that are not only affordable but also good. Schools like the national school of arts in Braamfontein Johannesburg, ProArte Alphen park situated in Pretoria east close to menlyn shopping and Tshwane University of Technology are well known for offering a variety of classes and courses that are good at naturing your God given talent.

You may be a high school student or even have passed matric and want to further your studies by study something to do with arts but not know what steps to take to make your dreams come true but t all starts with Google, just search and surely something helpful will pop up. Even if you are already a university student it can never be too late to learn, just register for online short courses or simply visit an art studio regularly on your spare time.

related to art:

                   https://www.nytimes.com/section/arts

                   https://news.artnet.com

                   https://news.artnet.com/art-world

  Fact Box: Photo Credits; Walter Moropa