Rocklands Library was transformed into an art gallery on Thursday 7 September for the Advance Edukos’ First Thursday art exhibition.
Paintings done by learners, who are part of their programme under the theme “me”, were displayed for the first time. Some pieces were also on sale.
Randi Albertus joined the programme last year after his sister joined.
“After I saw the programme, I realised this was something I wanted to do. Art is both a possible career and an outlet for me. I want to do graphic design after school and I like to do it on the side as something fun,” says Albertus.
He had mixed emotions about being part of the exhibition.
“Normally the only people seeing my picture or my art are my family, now strangers are seeing it, so it’s mixed emotions but I am happy that people are liking it,” he says.
Having to do a self-portrait was a daunting task. “I felt nervous. I have done a self-portrait before, but that was in pencil. Now it was in paint,” he says.
“When I saw it, I didn’t like it because it was paint and not something I usually do, but now seeing it again, Its actually good.”
Provincial minister for Cultural Affairs and Sport Anaroux Marais also attended the event.
“It is so wonderful to see the young children exploring themselves through art and culture,” she says.
“It is an opportunity for the young kids to explore themselves and know themselves and show us what they do have. This is a safe space. A place where they feel they belong.”
She was impressed with the artworks on display.
“It is fantastic what these young children can do and what they have painted, telling us about themselves, their surroundings and their communities through their art,” she says.
Advanced Edukos’ director and founder Wendy Abrahams says the programme creates a platform for young children to express themselves.
“The First Thursday acknowledges their skills, talents and gifts and celebrating what they have by giving them that sense of an exhibition. Some of them have exhibited, but never seen their art displayed. Now you can see their proud faces,” she says.
Starting in 2020, the organisation offers after school academic support with homework, alongside its arts.
“Learners need academic support. Moms are working or dads are not present and they need someone to give them that academic support. They come here and we help them with their homework, school assignments and something to eat. Some do not have food at home, so at least we know that one meal is provided,” she says.
The programme has grown so much that the organisation now has two locations – Rocklands and Strandfontein – catering to more than 140 learners. They also have an in-school programme at a local primary school, have a coding programme and dignity day, which reaches even more youth.
