Celebrating Creativity and Talent at the Umtiza Art Festival in Eastern Cape
- Leon du Preez
- May 5
- 5 min read
The Umtiza Art Festival is not just another event; it is a vibrant celebration of creativity flourishing in the Eastern Cape. This festival, now in its ninth year, has been captivating audiences in the Buffalo City Metro area since its inception in 2016. Thanks to the collaboration of the Guild Theatre, East London Museum, and the Ann Bryant Art Gallery, this festival has turned into a significant cultural highlight, showcasing the best local talent.
Beyond just displaying art, the Umtiza Art Festival plays a crucial role in nurturing a thriving community of artists, performers, and art lovers. It inspires future generations to engage with the arts, making it an important event for cultural development in the region.
A Rich History of Collaboration
Launched by local artistic institutions, the Umtiza Art Festival was established to uplift the creative landscape of the Eastern Cape. The festival makes great use of extraordinary venues, such as the Guild Theatre, East London Museum and the Ann Bryant Art Gallery, both of which offer world-class facilities that nurture talent and host impactful productions.
With the next festival scheduled for May 23 to June 7, 2025, the Ann Bryant Art Gallery invites Eastern Cape artists to join in. This call highlights the festival's spirit of collaboration and encourages the community to come together to celebrate their shared heritage through their artistic expressions.
A Platform for Diverse Productions
Festival attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup of theatrical and musical performances during the Umtiza Art Festival. Local artists bring to life the rich stories and histories from the Eastern Cape. For instance, last year's festival featured over 15 performances, ranging from drama to music, attracting over 2,000 attendees who shared in the joy of creative expression.
The organizers take great care in curating each performance to resonate with the audience, blending artistry and entertainment. This commitment to quality has positioned the Umtiza Art Festival as a premier cultural celebration in the region.
A Celebration of Visual Art
In addition to thrilling performances, the Umtiza Art Festival shines a spotlight on visual arts, specifically fine arts and crafts. Artists from throughout the Eastern Cape can submit their work for exhibition at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery. This year, the festival is set to feature over 100 artists showcasing diverse forms of creativity, from painting and sculpture to mixed media.
Visitors have the opportunity to engage directly with local artists, gaining insight into their creative processes. This interaction not only celebrates artistic talent but also helps artists gain recognition and forge connections. It contributes meaningfully to the broader narrative of art in South Africa.
Educational Engagement and Community Involvement
At the heart of the Umtiza Art Festival is a commitment to education and community engagement. Each year, the festival introduces educational programs that cover critical topics such as history, science, and environmental issues. These programs spark essential discussions and promote understanding of art's role in our society.
Workshops, panel discussions, and presentations are integral to the festival, ensuring that attendees come away informed and inspired. The focus on community involvement makes the festival accessible and enriching for everyone who joins.
How to Get Involved
Artists in the Eastern Cape interested in participating in the festival can find clear submission guidelines from the Ann Bryant Art Gallery. Artists are encouraged to express their creativity and focus on themes that reflect their community. This open call not only enhances the exhibition but also strengthens the connection between artists and their audience.
The lively atmosphere at the Umtiza Art Festival invites everyone—locals, travelers, and art enthusiasts—to partake in this incredible celebration of creativity. As the festival approaches in 2025, excitement and anticipation are building, making it an event you won't want to miss.
The Ann Bryant Art Gallery would like to invite all Eastern Cape artists to participate in an Art Exhibition to be held at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery during the Umtiza Festival form 23 May to 7 June 2025. Please submit your work on or before Monday 12th May 2025 cut off time 4pm..
Every year, on the East London Fine Art Society’s Annual Exhibition Calendar shows the date of the established “Anything but Painting” exhibition.
The East London Fine Art Society invites artists to submit their artwork on the theme “Anything but Painting” which can be woodwork, beadwork, leatherwork, sculpture, needlework, or simply anything where painting is not the dominant media.
Please submit your work on or before Monday 12th May 2025 cut off time 4pm.. The exhibition will be opened at the Coach House of the Ann Bryant Art Gallery, East London from 18h00 for 18h30 on Friday 23rd May 2025 and will conclude Saturday 7th June 2025 at 12:00 noon.
ARTISTS PLEASE TAKE NOTE: A MAXIMUM OF SIX ARTWORKS ALLOWED PER ARTIST.
ENTRY FEE: R5.00 per entry for members and R15.00 per entry for non-members
A triptych must relate to each other or have the same theme, they must be a set.
Please be advised: NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Entry and label forms can be downloaded from the Ann Bryant Art Gallery website at www.annbryant.co.za or collected from the gallery at 9 St Marks Road, Belgravi
Attention all artists! If you have old paintings from your student days or artworks that have been tucked away, we invite you to showcase them at the Loft of the Coach House Ann Bryant Art Gallery. Each entrant may submit a maximum of six original artworks, priced below R 5,000.00. Please note that 20% commission will be taken from any sales. Entry forms are available at the gallery or can be downloaded below. Don't miss this chance to exhibit your talent!
TO BOOK PLEASE CONTACT BERNADETTE TAYLOR ON0766702462
TO BOOK PLEASE CONTACT BERNADETTE TAYLOR ON0766702462
Exciting Upcoming Features
With so much to look forward to, the Umtiza Art Festival continues to be a platform where artistry meets community spirit. Attendees can expect interactive installations, workshops led by experienced artists, and even performances designed specifically for children. This diversity ensures that every demographic finds something to connect with, making it a truly inclusive experience.
Whether you are traveling to the Eastern Cape or you are a local resident, save the dates for the Umtiza Art Festival from May 23 to June 7, 2025. Join in this celebration of creativity and support the artists who make this region vibrant and unique.
Are you excited to explore the artistic landscape of the Eastern Cape? Get ready to engage, connect, and be inspired at the Umtiza Art Festival!
Comments