Spier Academy’s 2012 graduates Sivenathi Tyhali, Marcelino Manhula and Ronald Muchatuta are some of the examples of the courses success.
Local artists have been offered a once-in-a-lifetime window of opportunity that will see them venture into a whole new world of art.
The Spier Arts Academy is offering bursaries to aspirant artists who want to specialise in mosaics and ceramics.
Successful applicants will be roped in to be part of a three year employment based training.
According to Spiers Academy’s Monique Davids this course is aimed at creating self-sustaining artists.
“We aim to develop previously disadvantaged individuals who aspire to this art form
We want to give those who aspire to be entrepreneurs and community developers a chance, an opportunity to become business owners and contribute positively to society through using the mosaic art form and the ceramic art form,” she said.
The application process is open until the 1st of September 2015 and Davids is urging locals to take full advantage of the opportunity.
“During the three years the students are taught business skills, history of art, drawing and mathematics so that after the course they can work independently as artists,” she said.
As part of the program the students receive a monthly stipend of R1600 for transport and other necessities.
There is also an incentive of a trip to Italy for the students as a reward for completing the first two years with distinctions. Applicants must have a minimum of grade 10 with passion and knowledge of art.
Gaining entry, however, is not easy as the demand for such a course has been growing since 2008 when it was launch by Jeanetta Blignuat Arts Consultants.
“Last year we received 528 applications and there was space for 29 mosaic students and 10 for ceramics. To be selected you must have a passion for arts and be dedicated,” she added.
One of the Spier Academy graduates, Simthembile Gqushuza (30), said that he was grateful that the academy has a journeyman program for its graduates.
“When you finish the course they help with commissioning work for you so that you can earn a living for yourself.
Gqushuza, from Vrygrond, says that he learnt a lot in the programme.
“I polished my skills in art but I have learnt a lot about team work. The work that we do here requires you to work with other people as well as manage yourself.. I would advise aspirant artists to take this opportunity.” Interested? Contact the Spier Academy on 021 465 9029 or email info@spieracademy.co.za