Obs Art Thursdays turns one

By: Jermaine Johnson

Every second Thursday night of the month, the magic of art takes over Observatory.

Local businesses unite to host "Art Thursdays".

Showcases on this night include art exhibitions, drawing sessions, open studios, poetry slams, theatrical and musical performances.

This event provides a platform for local up and coming artist to display their work, and mingle with other artists.

Local artist Jaide Williams says that Observatory has provided a lot of opportunity for people.

Williams is a 19-year-old student studying at Michaelis School of Fine Art.

Art Thursdays has given him several opportunities to gain exposure for his work.

Also featured is the Cape Town Irish Session band performing Irish Folk Music, with an open invite to other artists to join.

The November event marks the one year anniversary of Art Thursdays.

The event began as an AHEM! Art Collective initiative and is managed by two volunteers, Barbara Langridge and Ryan Hayes.

With no funding, their volunteerism has been a major factor in the event's constant growth in popularity. Art Thursdays has been featured in several publications, including the Sunday Times and Getaway Magazine as one of the top free things to do in Cape Town.

With the growth in popularity, the event has also seen the quality of art improve.

During the October 2017 edition of Art Thursdays, three members from the Association of Mouth & Foot Painters did a live painting demonstration at Framing Place.

They are a South African organisation of painters with disabilities.

To be featured during Art Thursdays or for more information, visit the "Art Thursdays in Obz" Facebook page.