Unveiling Creativity: Discovering Latest Exhibitions and Workshops at Ann Bryant Art Gallery and Recapping the Vibrant Umtiza Arts Festival

East London’s art scene is alive and buzzing, with the Ann Bryant Art Gallery right at its core. This renowned hub in the Eastern Cape showcases incredible art and hosts diverse workshops and exhibitions that nurture local talent and inspire creativity. In this blog post, we’ll explore the latest events at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery and recap the lively Umtiza Arts Festival, which took place in May 2025.

Latest Exhibitions at Ann Bryant Art Gallery

The Ann Bryant Art Gallery currently features a range of exhibitions that spotlight both emerging and established artists. Each exhibition is thoughtfully curated to display various artistic expressions, pushing the limits of creativity.

One highlight next month is the “GREG SCHULTZ, A SOLO EXHIBITION OF PAINTING AND CUT-OUTS” showcase. This exhibition celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the Eastern Cape. It features local artist Greg Schultz who uses vibrant colors and innovative methods to bring our heritage to life. Visitors are invited to engage with the artworks and reflect on how these pieces connect with their own personal stories. Surveys show that 78% of visitors report feeling a deeper connection to their roots after experiencing this exhibition.

Experience the captivating artwork of local artist Greg Schultz at his solo exhibition, featuring paintings and cut-outs, from 25 July to 25 August 2025 at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery in East London.

Upcoming Art Workshops

In addition to exhibitions, the local artists connected to the Ann Bryant Art Gallery offers a variety of workshops for those looking to enhance their artistic skills. The artists has planned an exciting lineup of workshops catering to different skill levels.

One notable workshop, “Oil Painting with Tony Durrheim,” These workshops are designed for all levels, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist. Attendees will learn the important techniques used in Oil Painting as well as to create beautiful pieces.

Join renowned local artist Tony Durrheim for engaging oil painting workshops. Explore a variety of subjects through hands-on classes available for both beginners and experienced artists. Sessions are held on Tuesdays, with convenient morning and evening options. All materials provided. Contact for more details.

Another engaging option is “JEFF RANKIN DRAWING CLASS.” This workshop, led by a well-known draughtsman and Print maker, who emphasis narrative art themes.

These workshops not only enhance individual creativity but also provide opportunities for participants to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a strong community around the gallery.

Recapping the Umtiza Arts Festival

The Umtiza Arts Festival in May/June 2025 was a remarkable event, uniting art lovers from across the Eastern Cape. This annual celebration spotlights the region’s artistic heritage and features everything from visual art displays to captivating performances. It has become one of the key events on the local cultural calendar.

During the festival, a variety of performances took center stage, including energetic theater shows and live music that resonated throughout East London. Local artists had the chance to showcase their talents before a wider audience, with over 3,000 attendees enjoying the festivities throughout the weekend.

Interactive workshops were another central feature of the festival. These hands-on sessions catered to all ages, covering activities from pottery making to dance classes. Feedback shows that 92% of participants found the workshops not only enjoyable but also enriching, creating a greater appreciation for the arts.

Highlights of the Festival

One of the standout moments was the “Umtiza Art Exhibition,” showcasing dynamic Visual art pieces reflecting the vibrant culture of the Eastern Cape.

The "Art of Play" Art installation showcased throughout the festival added to the experience, allowing attendees to play with creatively designed wooden blocks . These works, crafted by local artist Steve Sanfilippo, represented themes of unity and cultural diversity, encouraging visitors to reflect on their community and identity.

Embracing the Local Art Scene

The Ann Bryant Art Gallery shines brightly as a beacon of creativity in East London. It provides invaluable platforms for artistic expression through its engaging exhibitions and workshops. Whether you are an artist looking to hone your skills or a fan of art seeking inspiration, the gallery is a must-visit destination.

The Umtiza Visual Art Exhibition sold 17 artworks for approximately R 22 000.00

Conversely, the Umtiza Arts Festival captured the spirit of the Eastern Cape and showcased the region's dynamic creative culture. As we anticipate future events and exhibitions, it’s clear that the local art scene is vibrant, continually evolving, and bursting with potential. Stay connected with the exciting developments at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery and experience the rich energy of local arts!