May is traditionally known as Africa Month. To celebrate this, Cape Point is highlighting a few local artists whose pieces are inspired by Africa and African cultures. Well known among global tourists as one of the best destinations to source unique craftwork, Cape Town is a mecca for the many industrious informal artisans offering their wares. Recognising the need to allow for talent to be showcased, Cape Point and Tourvest Destination Retail recently initiated a project geared to provide local artisans with a once in a lifetime opportunity to market their products through the Cape Point concession’s curio stores at this iconic Big 6 tourist haven.
Working in a highly competitive industry, numerous business-minded art- and craft-workers jumped at the opportunity to participate in a competition to find people creating items that foreign guests are after, and which could thus be suitable for sale in the curio stores.
Having studied the numerous entries, the competition judges announced the winners on 26 April 2019. Claiming first place is Roselle Thuynsma, for her beautiful handmade fridge magnets made from recycled bottle tops. Inside each magnet, a small painting represents South Africa in a unique way. Roselle’s win includes a cash prize of R10 000, plus the golden opportunity to sell her products from one of the Cape Point gift stores, which see thousands of international visitors hungry to take home a memory of their South African holiday.
‘Winning the #CapePointCreates competition has helped me on so many levels! It means that my product will get proper exposure and that I can generate a better income. It would also allow me to grow more as an artist for with every new venture comes new fresh ideas – which is crucial for the survival of an artist.’ – Roselle Thuynsma
Second place went to Liz Browne, who entered her wonderful hand-sewn Nandi Dolls made of 100% shweshwe fabrics, iconic in South African history as the wonderful patterns have been passed on from one generation to another over centuries. Often used for Xhosa weddings because of its bright and eye-catching designs, shweshwe has been described as ‘the denim of South Africa’.
Among the many other talented entries, third place went to Daniela Samakosky who entered her stylish hand-crafted slippers made from discarded materials and designed for comfort and style.
The response to the competition from the locals was impressive: from beaded clocks to stunning photography and even household items made from recycled materials – the calibre of entries and, of course, of the winners was very high.
Local and international tourists interested in purchasing these winning items will be able to do so from July onwards. So, be sure to head over to Cape Point while stocks last.
The initiative taken by the Cape Point Concession and Tourvest Destination Retail has provided local artisans with an opportunity not just to showcase their talents but also to further their businesses. And, through giving tourists visiting Cape Point yet another quality and unique product to take home with them, it’s a win for all!
