​The first exhibition of the Baz-Art organisation's grant-in-aid programme opened today to honour the artworks created during the NGO's South African Artist Programme, which was run the past few weeks.

​‘The City partners with a number of organisations as part of our efforts to take arts and culture programmes to the most vulnerable residents in the city. Many communities, and especially our children, do not have the opportunity to express themselves creatively and through art, but with our assistance, the Baz-Art organisation is able to reach a much wider audience.Funding enables them to continue the good work that they are doing in transforming spaces through urban art and artist development,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

This section of the programme provided children and adult artists in Philippi with a safe place to express their thoughts and ideas in the form of artworks.

Co-founder of the organisation, Alexandre Tilmans, said the projects were both components of the SA Artist Programme while art teacher, Mark Jeneker, awarded students their certificates.

‘There is no doubt that the arts strengthen the economy and spark creativity and innovation. It has a social impact, exposing communities to a variety of genres and skills. During these unprecedented times, which have been difficult and isolating especially for our children, art is an important outlet. It also provided a safe space for them to express themselves,' added Councillor Badroodien.

For more information on the SA Artist Programme, visit baz-art.co.za.