Basani Art and Craft Centre, Pietermaritzburg

Basani Art and Craft Centre, Pietermaritzburg

Adjacent to the Royal Show grounds in Pietermaritzburg lies Basani Arts and Crafts Centre in Hyslop Road. The centre, which has recently been completely renovated, boasts a gallery, a ceramics room and craft room containing a selection of Zulu crafts. Magwaza clay pots are on offer in the ceramics rooms and are sourced from the surrounding areas of Msinga and Nkandla.

The centre was originally established to provide a central base for young Zulu artists to meet and work. Talented local artists, Mthokozisi Myeza and S Xaba are amongst those whose work is exhibited in the gallery.

One of the unique events, midway during the centre’s week, is Thulanis Artists’ Forum, hosted by the Tatham Art Gallery. The purpose of the forum is to help struggling young artists emerge from what is often an isolated work environment, gain an opportunity to display their work, and receive constructive input.

Each week sees different works on display, and feedback is provided by gallery staff and the artists in attendance. The environment is informal, promotes learning, and is a wonderful opportunity for artists to gain perspective and input in a constructive and helpful way. A core group of artists attends each week, while young up and coming artists are encouraged to attend. The Wednesday forum often includes a guest speaker, who may address a certain technique or genre of art on display.

The centre is open every day from 09h00 – 17h00, but closed on Sundays.
The Artists’ Forum is hosted on a Wednesday afternoon, and artists are working towards creating soccer art for their 2010 exhibits.