Eastern Cape Artists and people working in the arts field have benefitted from a National Arts Council (NAC) funding programme aimed at developing the sector.
The NACâs funding programme offers a minimum of R100 000 and a maximum of R500 000 to artists and art-related projects that are aimed at the capacity building; strategic initiatives; and platforms, exhibitions and festivals.
Last year, Port Elizabeth-based company, On-Time Projects trained artists in intellectual property and copyright ownership and taught entrepreneurs in the sector how to properly establish their businesses. The training was made possible by R201 000 in funding given to On-Time Projects by the NAC.
According to Thandile Phetshwa, Owner of On Time Projects, On Time Projects aims to develop administrative, business and entrepreneurial skills in the sector. âWe teach artists about the legal side of things. They learn about the different types of contracts and what they mean,â added Phetshwa.
The NAC also encourages applications from arts organizations and individuals who support the involvement of women, youth and people living with disabilities, particularly in historically disadvantaged areas.