Arts Aweh!: Empowering Cape Town’s Youth through Art

Cape Town is a cultural hub that has become a breeding ground for artistic expression. Recognizing the transformative power of art, the Arts and Culture Branch of the City of Cape Town launched the Arts Aweh! programme. It aimed to provide a creative and nurturing environment for young people to explore various art forms, build connections, and appreciate each other’s unique perspectives.

The Arts Aweh! Programme

The Arts Aweh! programme was a two-month creative after-school initiative that ran from May to June. The programme welcomed children from ten different areas of Cape Town, including Dunoon, Delft, Pella, Langa, Bridgetown, Silvertown, Heideveld, Bonteheuwel, Woodlands, and Eastridge. More than 400 children participated daily, with a total of nearly 19,800 attendees throughout the programme’s duration.

Exploring Art Forms

The Arts Aweh! programme provided a platform for participants to immerse themselves in a wide range of artistic activities. From drawing, painting, and photography to hip hop, dance, and poetry, the programme offered various means of creative expression. Children could even try their hands at clay and beading, further developing their artistic skills.

Creative Coaches and Mentorship

The programme involved 40 multidisciplinary creative coaches who provided guidance and support to the children. These mentors helped create a positive and engaging atmosphere, fostering a sense of belonging and allowing the children to feel secure while exploring their talents and connecting with their peers.

Impact of the Arts Aweh! Programme

The Arts Aweh! pilot project culminated in a series of exhibitions in June, showcasing the newly acquired skills of the young artists. The positive reception of the programme and its impact on Cape Town’s youth have raised hopes for it to become an annual highlight on the Arts and Culture calendar.

For mentor Zach Esau, witnessing the healing power of art brought immense joy: “Few things make me smile more than seeing art heal people. I have smiled so many times on this programme.” One of the programme’s participants, 15-year-old Kaede-Jade Daniels from Bonteheuwel, shared how art allowed him to express his innermost feelings: “The art I create represents the way I feel. Creating art makes me feel better… I love art.”

Enriching Cape Town’s Cultural Fabric

By offering a creative haven for young minds, the Arts Aweh! programme has not only enriched the lives of its participants but also strengthened Cape Town’s vibrant cultural fabric. The city’s commitment to nurturing artistic talent and fostering an appreciation for diverse perspectives through such initiatives bodes well for the future of its arts and culture scene.

The Arts Aweh! programme has empowered young people in Cape Town through art and provided them with opportunities to express themselves creatively. The programme’s positive impact on participants has demonstrated the importance of investing in artistic initiatives that foster growth and nourish young minds.