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Barcoded Magazine
CONTENT
THE GAMES WE PLAY 7
LIFESTYLE AND CULTURE UNCOVERED - INDGNXT GAMES
16 OFFRAMP - BEYONCE AND TOPSHOP
ANNOUNCE DEAL
20 SOUNDBOOTH - IDRIS ELBA RELEASES ALBUM
28 PIXELS - MOVIES 34 CREATIVE CHRONICLES - ‘SOCK-SESSFULLY’ SPEAKING WITH SKINNY SBU
38 SPOT ON - CLAUDINE OPPORTUNITIES
49 CALL FOR SA-UK SEASONS PROPOSALS PURE ART
62 ARTIST FOCUS- JOSEPH EZE 65 PURE ART REPORT - KWEZI CARTOON 70 PURE ART REPORT - GAME CHANGE! MULTIMEDIA
73 MULTIMEDIA - BECOMING A VIDEO GAME
SPECIAL EFFECTS ARTIST
Publisher n8Media Editor in Chief Phumzile Twala @PHUMIT Production Manager Mbuso Mafuyeka @youngbuu IT Manager Brian Khumalo @Brian_DeITwiz Sales Manager Khethiwe Twala @misskittyred Baile Ramaisa Graphic Designer Mbuso Mafuyeka @youngbuu Contributing Writers Phumi Nyalunga Phumzile Twala @PHUMIT
For general enquiries email info@barcodedmag.co.za For advertising enquries email sales@barcodedmag.co.za khethiwe@barcodedmag.co.za baile@barcodedmag.co.za 011 486- 9488
media EXCEEDING . BRAND . EXCELLENCE
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WORD Albert Eisntein once said, “You have to learn the Contributor Phumi Nyalungu writes for us: ‘Pure rules of the game. And then you have to play Art Report’. better than anyone else.” We also feature our 5 favourite artists we met up with at the Soweto Art and Craft Fair last month: ‘Pure Art Series’ Our theme this month celebrates “The Games We Play.” We also look at reasons highlighted by Marvel Producer for ‘Why There is a Need For A Female Nathan Sawaya’s world-renowned Lego exhibit is Superhero Movie’: ‘Pixels.’ a great example of merging art and the fun that comes with a simple childhood game. (P.S.Don’t forget to check the exhibition out when it visits SA shores in December at the V&A Waterfront in Somehow I believe as creatives, we don’t really lose our inner child. That playfulness that comes Cape Town) with childhood is somehow the magic that keeps the creative industry and the art world thriving. We feature Dlalisa Creative’s ‘Indgnxt Games’ the brainchild of Tshepo Chiloane. Read more about So don’t lose your sense of fun; stay playful! his exciting venture in ‘Uncovered.’ Game On! We also had a chat with upcoming House vocalist Claudine, and also caught up on the streets of Signing Out Braamfontein with the young entrepreneur and Skinny Sbu Socks founder: ‘Creative Chronicles.’ @PHUMIT Barcoded Magazine
Lifestyle + Culture
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Uncovered
UNCOVERED THE GAMES WE PLAY INDGNXT GAMES LOOKS TO REVIVE GAMING CULTURE IN MZANSI At a time when the creative economy is taking shape in South Africa; at a time when young creatives are shaping business ideals and gaining competitive advantage by using their creative skills, nearly ten years in the making, Indgnxt Games is coming to life.
childhood games such as ditini, mokoko/blackmampatile and madzomana. So I thought it would be great to introduce these games to a bigger audience, by commercialising them.”
“The whole idea was inspired by looking at the X-Games brand. I then thought of taking South Founded by Tshepo Pdpd Rmhl Chiloane in 2005, African indigenous games and taking them to the the Youth Marketing and Brand Activation Agency next level. That’s where the name comes from as has come up with an exciting concept which seems well,” he reveals. set to blow many people’s minds. While South Africa is known as a sporting nation, indigenous The bigger plan is to eventually introduce 24 games games played by youngsters often provide active and African popular culture to a commercial market. entertainment and curb boredom during school Beginning at the end of November, Dlalisa Creative holidays. Given the acceleration of the technological (the division responsible for this venture) is set revolution, changes to the way youngsters entertain to embark on brand activations across Gauteng. themselves have affected rural and urban areas at a These activations will involve invitations extended rapid pace. Activities involving playing outside have to members of the public to sign their teams taken a palpable back seat. up to compete in the various stages of gaming The young creative from Mamelodi, Pretoria has levels, while incorporating elements of popular culture. This is described by the organisation as “… decided to change the status quo. integrated elements of different indigenous popular Adapting indigenous games for a bigger platform, street culture movements such as new age kwaito, while creating numerous opportunities for brands hip hop, dance, township lingo and fashion.” These and community involvement is the ingenious idea will be fused with traditional sports elements from of Chiloane. soccer, cricket to netball. “Growing up, a lot of black people used to play
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Uncovered
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Barcoded Magazine
Uncovered
The games will have 3 levels, namely: Kids, Semi-pro and Professional and it’s the aim of Dlalisa Creative to include a broad market including black, coloured and white players. With a television concept in the works, Indgnxt Games looks to introduce the concept to a national audience soon.
contributing to business development by creating platforms for upcoming and established companies to market their products or services. The games are a media platform for SA youth brands to use as a marketing platform for upcoming and established companies to market their products or services. Gaming equipment will be designed baring the logos “We’ll also be having a celebrity team involved in the of various organisations for a reasonable price. On events while we hope to get a lot more people taking a grander scale, Indgnxt Games will be hosted twice part through exposure on TV,” explains Chiloane. annually- adopting a winter and Summer Games Not only will Dlalisa Creative focus on traditional TV, expo disposition. but they are also looking to capitalise on the boom in digital platforms. Currently in negotiations with a Indgnxt Games looks to bring back the culture of major Telecommunications network, Chiloane says communal activity while also preserving indigenous they hope to establish an exclusive channel using games in the country. digital platforms. Find them here: www.indgnxt-games.co.za. Essentially, Indgnxt Games hopes to get people actively engaged in team activities, while also By: Phumzile Twala
mymdna.com
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Uncovered
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JENNIFER LOPEZ’S MEMOIR REVEALS MOMENT SHE KNEW HER MARRIAGE TO MARC ANTHONY WAS OVER The “Love Don’t Cost a thing” singer details the exact moment she knew her marriage was over in her new book “True Love.” The mother of two writes about the moment she knew her third marriage was over: “As I sat there getting made up, my heart was beating out of my chest and I felt like I couldn’t breathe.” Lopez was getting prepped for a photo-shoot when the panic attack happened. “I leaped from my chair and said to my dear manager Benny Medina, ‘Benny, something is happening! I feel like I’m going crazy.” She recalls that her mom was there and rushed to be by her side too. She writes, “It was one of those moments when you’re so scared you can’t even scream. In a blur of fear and panic, I looked at Benny and my mother and blurted out the words: ‘I don’t think I can be with Marc anymore,’ Then I burst into tears.” Married in 2004, Lopez and Anthony’s marriage ended in divorce shortly after they celebrated their 7-year anniversary. Lopez confessed in the memoir, that “What people didn’t know was that life really wasn’t that good. My relationship was falling apart and I was terrified.”
PHARRELL SITS ON APOLLO THEATER BOARD Producer and musician Pharrell Williams has joined the Apollo Theater’s board of directors. He was welcomed to the 32-member board at the end of October. “Pharrell represents the DNA of the Apollo board,” said Jonelle Procope, the theater’s president. “If the Apollo were an artist it would be Pharrell.” Williams has worked with numerous artists including Snoop Dogg, Robin Thicke and Daft Punk.
Barcoded Magazine
Entertainment
RETURN OF SHAMELESS: SEASON 5 Shameless, the explosive US remake of the British television series is set to return for a fifth season in 2015. Sasha Alexander, Steve Kazee and Dermot Mulroney will be guest starring in the upcoming season. Alexander has signed on for a multi-episode guest star deal portraying the role of Helene, who is one of Lip’s college professors. Helene’s character is described as a confident and educated woman with a wild side. There is high speculation of whether there will be a teacher and student hook up. Emmy Rossum’s character, Fiona will have a new love interest (portrayed by Kazee) while Jeffrey Dean Morgan will play his rival Sean Pierce, a recovering addict and the new boss at Patsy’s Pies. Justin Chatwin will play Fiona’s true love, who will go by the name of Jack, even though everyone thought he was dead.
SA SHOW ‘A DISTANT DRUM’ GETS STANDING OVATIONS AT CARNEGIE HALL, NYC Performed at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York as part of the Ubuntu Music & Arts of South Africa festival, ‘A Distant Drum’ the story of Nat Nakasa received standing ovations. Directed by Jerry Mofokeng and featuring Nathaniel ‘Nat’ Ramabulana as Nakasa and Christiaan
Schoombie (as the overeager apartheid Security policeman) the audience was confronted by the world that Nakasa inhabited during the 60s where the cruelty and absurdity of apartheid loomed large and Nakasa roamed the streets of Johannesburg in his tweed suit and his pen at hand. Nakasa left South Africa on an Exit Permit on July 14, 1965. His remains were recently brought back to the land where he was banished and reburied at Durban’s Chesterville’s Heroes Acre. 15
BEYONCE AND TOPSHOP ANNOUNCE DEAL Having founded fashion line House of Dereon with her mother in 2004, global superstar Beyonce is not new to the business of fashion. Her latest venture has been announced as a collaboration with Topshop to create her own line of athletic streetwear in autumn 2015.
Topshop. A statement released detailed what the line will include: footwear, clothing and accessories for dance.
“I could not think of a better partner as I continue “We have been looking at this category as fash- to grow the Parkwood business. I have always ion inspired fitness develops, and know that this loved Topshop for their fashion credentials and is right for our customers’ heartland. Creating forward thinking. Working with their development a partnership with Beyonce, one of the most team to create and produce a technical and fashhard-working and talented people in the world, ion led collection is exciting and I’m looking forwho spends many hours of her life dancing, re- ward to participating in all aspects of this partnerhearsing and training is a unique opportunity to ship,” said Beyoncé. develop this category, “said Sir Phillip Green of Barcoded Magazine
Offramp
Television show celebrating sneaker culture in South Africa makes successful premiere on SABC 1. The show, which travels across the country- from the townships and suburbs of Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria, gets in touch with people on the sneaker culture’s value chain. This includes life style sneaker collectors, amapantsula, skaters, major distributors and independent boutiques, brand executives from major brands and the Department of Arts and Culture. The documentary is the first of its kind in Africa and presents a country in conversation with itself about a topic never explored before. Catch the show on SABC1 every Tuesday at 6pm.
STUD NATION THREADS WITH AN EDGE Founded in 2009 by Seja Mayaba and Junie Sihlangu, who hail from White City Soweto, Stud Nation is a brand with an edge. The ladies were inspired to come up with designs which catered for the specific needs of ladies of the LBGT community after realising that this market was pigeon-holed into either menswear or uber feminine clothing. But there was something missing in between. Enter: Stud Nation.
That was our target market initially. We’ve even showcased at ‘Pride’ (an annual event which celebrates the LBGT community in South Africa) but eventually we found that it’s loved by everyone.” “Essentially, it was inspired by the need to introduce clothing options for butch lesbian women, other than having to shop in the men’s department in stores,” she added. Sihlangu, who is also a graphic designer, also founded a brand called ‘Tsonga Pride’ which specialises in creating bags and hats using recyclable material. For more info and orders, contact: jfsihl187@gmail. com
Elaborating further on the concept, Mayaba says, “Stud Nation is for homosexual butch women. 17
JOE MAFELA
WE SALUTE THE LEGENDARY ACTOR AND PRODUCER’S UNRELENTING AND ADMIRABLE CONTRIBUTION TO SOUTH AFRICAN TELEVISION AND FILM
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Legendz
Mention Joe Mafela to any South African and the first image that likely comes to mind, is ”Sdumo.” The legendary actor’s portrayal of this character in the 1990s ran to 78 episodes (Sgudi Snaysi) and successfully made him a household name across South Africa.
to work, despite the challenges faced by older actors in the small SA industry.
Mafela’s talents also extended to the advertising industry. Many will recall his popular Chicken Licken adverts, which came about during his tenure as Creative Director of Black Communications at BBDO South Africa. He went on to become the first black man to win a Loerie Award.
Mafela’s contribution to the South African entertainment industry is immense and admirable. His work has notably influenced a number of comedic acts and other young creative in South Africa. His production work on television paved the way for other black producers and has ultimately left a huge imprint on the scene.
Following a brief appearance on Zone 14, Mafela commented,” There is nothing as exciting as listening to young people appreciate your work. Some were still young when I played on ‘Sgudi Brought up in Johannesburg, Mafela Snaysi’ but they still remember my began acting in the 1960s. He also character. They still call me imbungulu worked with some of the industry’s (a parasite).” biggest names including Lee Marvin and Roger Moore in Wilbur Smith’s Speaking of his turn in the psychological Shout at the Devil. Multi-talented, thriller ‘Retribution,’Mafela said,” This Mafela spread his wings and began could have happened to any judge, directing and managing cultural dance particularly during the days of apartheid. troupes Mzumba and Sangoma. As an actor, you play different roles. I Following the advent of television in think people are used to me being in South Africa in 1976, Mafela began comedy series, but this one is serious.” Mafela portrayed a retired judge in this working on uDeliwe. role, and revealed strict instructions His work on television series such from the director: “It was the director’s as Going Up, Madam and Eve and challenge to take me out of my comfort Khululeka arguably influenced the zone and I can give him an accurate flourishing spate of local TV productions score on that; he strictly told me that at the time. His own production company we don’t want funny gestures which are Penguin Films often produced these humorous. I’m versatile. I can do any programmes, signalling a chance in the role given to me, so it wasn’t difficult for SA television landscape. me to do this.”
His venture into the music industry was not without success. His biggest hit to date,’Shebeleza’ still gets some spins today. A 16-time award winner By: Phumzile Twala throughout his career, Mafela continues
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IDRIS ELBA RELEASES ALBUM:MI MANDELA Golden Globe award-winning actor and DJ Idris Elba has a new album called Mi Mandela. Written and produced by Elba, the album features 11 uniquely curated tracks featuring local and international musicians. “Mandela was into his music and I wanted to understand what music he liked and in that journey I discovered the roots of South African music.” The experimental album was created by Elba in collaboration with some fellow Brits as well as young South African talents such as Spoek Mathambo and DJ Spoko. Recorded between London, SA and Mali, Mi Mandela features admirable seamless rhythm and pace flow according to M&G’s Zodwa Kumalo-Valentine. Irish singer/songwriter and rapper Sabre lent his raspy vocals to the album while legendary Ndebele guitarist and singer Nothembi Mkhwebane lent her talents on a track aptly titled ‘Home.’ Elba has previously released three EPs under the name Driis. He revealed that the idea of putting an album together came to him while filming ‘Long Walk to Freedom’ in South Africa. Tracks Thank You for Freedom and Tree (Audra Mae and Cody ChestnuTT) are available for purchase on iTunes. Barcoded Magazine
Soundbooth
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www-musicnation5-com
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THEOPHILUS LONDON TALKS ABOUT HIS STYLE, MUSIC AND BEING MENTORED BY THE GREATS
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Theophilus London is a young artist who can proudly claim to have the experience of working with two of the biggest names in the worlds of fashion and music. Not many can claim to have been an understudy of Kanye West and Karl Lagerfeld. But Theophilus London can. With contemporaries such as Bobby Shmurda, Joey Bada$$ and Troy Ave, this group has been credited with injecting life back into the Brooklyn NY rap scene. What makes London stand out though is his non-conformist attitude. He doesn’t quite bend rules. He stretches them out. “I just don’t want to be known as a rapper. I’m trying to get bigger as a cultural leader.” Due out this November, his sophomore album “Vibes! “is executive produced by Kanye West and features art direction from Karl Lagerfeld. Trinidadian-born London is insistent that he wants his artistic vision to be genre-defying. “I don’t want anybody to be able to define this shit. If you can define it real quick then that’s not cool.” On Blurring lines as an artist:
ists and designers hanging out, like when Andy Warhol was hanging with Basquiat. The fact that Theo- a kid from Brooklyn- is working with Karl Lagerfeld is a big deal. I’m proud of myself. I want everybody else to be proud. I feel like now that I’ve made a big deal happen, niggas don’t want to help make it a big deal. Let’s blow these photos up all over the world. This is art. We could be part of the new and young art revolution. I just want to get support from my culture and shit like that. Earlier influences: In 2006, I was super influenced by Lupe Fiasco and the way he rapped. Before that, I would study the patterns of Mase, Jay Z, DMX, and Busta Rhymes. Hearing somebody like Lupe showed me I could express myself in a different way. That helped me grow as an artist. What to expect from ’Vibes!’: It’s an album you can play on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and then take a break on Friday and then play that shit again Saturday morning. That’s really the vibe I wanted to create.
When I first got in the game niggas like GQ or Vogue were the first ones to write about me. It’s really rare for those types of outlets to like an artist’s style like that. Think about it. Even someone like Kanye fought for the respect. His music is heard, but he still wants to express himself in oth- Source: www.lifeandtimes.com er ways. It’s not a bad problem being recognized in fashion circles, but I do want more people to know me for my music. Some kids have never heard a Jimi Hendrix record, but they can tell you how Jimi Hendrix looks. I’ve kind of bought that element back, but now it’s time for me to get back to a place where the music comes first. I have to be able to control how people are looking at me and stuff like that . On working with Karl Lagerfeld: It was like a movie man. That was real dope. Karl is a renaissance man. He’s great. To go to someone who has really lived life and lived every day of his life to be a better dude, be cooler, stimulate his mind, learn everything possible, create his own culture and create his own reality is a blessing. I’m trying to bring back the era of artBarcoded Magazine
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MIGOS: ON WHAT INSPIRED ‘BANDO’ Rap Group Migos premiered their trap musical, titled “Bando” this past September. The short film features a story-line loosely based on their comeup in the industry, from trapping in the “bando” to being major without a deal. Written and directed by Rik Cordero, it also features songs from their latest album. The group revealed the inspiration behind the film: Barcoded Magazine
“They wanted to see about our life. Some people thought we were just one person. Bando shows what we do individually and all together. We blended all of that in with our music. It’s like a trap musical we made. We made it a musical, just like Krush Groove and Streets Is Watching. Those are the movies Bando was inspired by.” Speaking of their influence, group member Takeoff says, “Everybody got a little piece of that Migo-flow, from New York to L.A. I’m feeling like we changed the game and we opened doors for others.”
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Critics have called it “Kind of a Pulp Fiction Mary Poppins”. Starring Katie Holmes in the lead role, Miss Meadows is a dark comedy about a substitute school teacher with impeccable manners and grace who has no idea just how beautiful and wickedly funny she is…because she is focused solely on her mission: to rid the community of predators and evil of all kinds with her wellpolished little gun inside her pocketbook. Her delicate beauty and simple moral code were borne in a tragic childhood where she witnessed a horrendous loss. Miss Meadows arrives in a new town every year. This time, she finds what she was never looking for…Love with a Sheriff, It turns out she’s exactly who this man of the law and his task force have been hunting for. Miss Meadows never looks for trouble, but she certainly never turns away from it, either. Miss Meadows believes everyone deserves a second chance, but never a third. Miss Meadows is scheduled for release on November 14 2014.
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Pixels- movies
One of the most anticipated films of the year, the sequel to 2011’s Horrible Bosses is scheduled to hit theatres on November 26. Starring Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx, Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz, the 144 minute comedy follows Nick, Dale and Kurt after they decide to launch a business of their own. But a slick investor has other plans, and when he manages to snake their successful venture right out from underneath them, the three friends launch a not-verywell-thought-out-plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and trade him for control of their company.
Starring Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Laurie Holden, Kathleen Turner and more, Dumb and Dumber To is a sequel to the 1994 film Dumb and Dumber. Scheduled for release on November 14, the film follows the two best friends twenty years after their last adventure. Good-hearted, yet dim-witted best friends Harry Dunne and Lloyd Christmas head out in search for Harry’s long lost daughter, and Lloyd’s in love again (with Harry’s daughter.) The directors, Peter and Bobby Farrelly told the Los Angeles Times, “We wanted it to be as good as the
first movie. Our goal is that after you see both movies and a couple of years have passed, they will blur together.” However, Peter added, “There will be people who will be angry, no matter what: ‘Why did you have to do another ‘Dumb and Dumber?’ That’s our baby!’ Then there will be a lot of people who will be very happy, and a lot of people in between. One thing that’s clear at this point in our career is that we’re not for everyone.” 29
TEENAGER RECREATES CLASSIC HOLLYWOOD FILM SCENES USING LEGO
ing on the bow of the Titanic, Audrey Hepburn enjoying cigarette in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, as well as Morgan’s favourite recreation, a scene from Singing in the Rain.
15 –year-old Morgan Spence has recreated dozens of cinema’s most unforgettable scenes in Lego. The two-minute film took the teenager three weeks to create and was part of a project with Lego masterbuilder Warren Elsmore, who created Lego –built scenes from 60 cult movies. Iconic scenes from films such as Dirty Dancing, The Sound of Music, Dracula and ET are also backed by famous songs and compositions used in the well-known films.
Mentioning that it took quite a bit of patience , he also added, “I’m quite proud of the results.” He first became interested in stop-motion filmmaking in 2011, and has his sights set on a career within the filmmaking industry.
Cinema fans can also see miniature versions of Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio standBarcoded Magazine
“I suppose the trickiest thing was keeping it as accurate as possible and making sure it was instantly recognisable. It was mostly pretty straightforward. It was more the set design and making it look good on camera,” explained Morgan.
“I’d like to continue doing stop motion and move into live action. I really do enjoy the animation. I’m a big fan of Lego- it lets my imagination run free.
STUDY FINDS FILM INDUSTRY PERPETUATES GENDER DISCRIMINATION
Pixels news
Hollywood actress and activist Geena Davis recently revealed findings of widespread gender discrimination across the global film industry. The findings were from a UN-backed report by the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism at the University of Southern California, which found ‘deep-seated discrimination and pervasive stereotyping of women and girls.’ Fewer than 15% of females were being employed as business executives, political figures, or in the field of science, technology, engineering, and/or mathematics. According to Davis, “The fact is: women are seriously under-represented across nearly all sectors of society around the globe, not just on-screen, but for the most part we’re simply not aware of the extent. In the time it takes to make a movie, we can change what the future looks like.” The actress added: “There are woefully few women CEOs in the world, but there can be lots of them in films. How do we encourage a lot more girls to pursue science, technology and engineering careers? By casting droves of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), politics, law and other professions in movies.” The study analysed popular movies from 11 countries, including the likes of Japan, India, France, Germany and the USA. It found that women were more likely to be depicted in hypersexualised manner than men. Girls and women were twice as likely as boys and men to be shown either in sexualised attire, in the nude, or thin. UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka called the study a “wake-up call” for the global film industry.
VRYBURG FILM FESTIVAL For the first time, North West town Vryburg will be hosting a film festival from 8 to 12 November 2014. In celebration of African films and 20 years of South African democracy, The Inaugural Dr Ruth S. Mompati Film Festival, is themed Black, Young and Gifted and promotes strong African stories. Various workshops will run from 8 to 10 November while
films will be screened from 10 to 12 November at six high schools. The festival’s opening screening will be “Miners Shot Down” by Rehad Desai, which recounts the tragedy that took place in Marikana in August 2012. Further films lined up for the festival include “Silent”(short film) by Doti Productions, “African Cypher” by Bryan Little, “Man of Gold” by Vincent Moloi, “What happened to Robert Mugabe” by Simon Bright, “Wembley to Soweto” by Kagiso Sesoko, “Scars” by Tiny Laubscher and “Once upon a day: Brenda Fassie” by Eddie Edwards.
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WHY THERE IS A NEED FOR A FEMALE SUPERHERO MOVIE Marvel Producer Victoria Alonso believes more females need to be hired by vfx pros- not just for gender equity, but because it will improve the work. She also told Variety that she would love it for Marvel to have a film centered around a female superhero. She explained that among visual effects artists and supervisors, there is a constant struggle to build up the number of women. “This is a tough road for women, not because it is a world of men, but because it takes a certain amount of time to be in a supervisory position, and by that time you are having to make a decision about having children or not. Which means you have to take a break, you’re out of the game, and once you’re out of the game, it’s hard to get back in the game.” Speaking at the Visual Effects Society Production Summit in Hollywood Alonso said,” This morning I came here because I wanted to make sure that when you put this out on a live- stream and there’s some 14-year-old kid in Austria or a 15-year-old in Germany or a 17-year-old in Massachusetts or somewhere else, and you want to go become an engineer or a digital artist, ladies, you can do it. Why, because the boys are going to be by your side, teaching you what they know, and at times, you will be teaching them. So for me, what’s important is to have a presence.”
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Creative chronicles
‘SOCK-SESSFULLY’ SPEAKING WITH SKINNY SBU Barcoded Mag recently caught up with the vibrant young founder of ‘Skinny Sbu Socks.’ We chatted about his growing brand, collaborations with various artists and the most popular question he gets asked, ‘Why Socks?’
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Why Socks: Our socks are locally produced, 100%. We design them ourselves and we make them ourselves. They’re high quality- 80% cotton. Our designs are locally inspired. You look at the Braamfontein culture, the Maboneng Precinct, Cape Townit’s that. We’re just taking that energy and that lifestyle and translating it into a simple pair of socks.
instilled a sense of attention to detail. Suddenly I would look at how I wear my socks, how I wash them and what I wear them with. I’m a very tall guy, I’m 1.9m tall, and so I’ve always struggled to find pants that fit me properly. So for me to compensate that gap between my shoes and my pants, I’d collect very colourful socks. Last year before I started Skinny Sbu Socks I had over 70 pairs of socks of my own that I used to collect. So for me it was literal transition from being just
The brand started last year, April 2013. How did
a sock collector to building an international sock
it come about…? I always get asked the question
brand.
‘Why socks?’ and I always say ‘Why not socks?’ (Laughs) With me everything dates back to my
Collaborations with various artists:
childhood. I was raised by four very beautiful
We now have Tumisho Masha as our brand
women, my mom, my gran, my aunt and my sister.
ambassador. That’s big for me because he’s
So, as you know, women are people who like to
my childhood hero as an actor myself. He also
pay attention to detail. I used to do my own laundry
represents what Skinny Sbu Socks stands
and my mom would always tell me, actually she’d
for. He’s a Skinny Sbu Socks man. He’s a 2014
insist that I wash my socks inside out and that just
man. He’s on instagram. He collects a fashion
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Creative chronicles
magazine. He’s an international citizen who’s
The Muffinz etc, so there are going to be crazy
constantly travelling and wants to collect very
collaborations for this December.
nice items and that’s what we offer as Skinny Sbu Socks. The biggest thing we’re doing now is that we’re working with artists across the board. We’re working with a visual artist, Potsiso and we did a Skinny Sbu Socks Lookbook. We took our current range, which are five designs, went through his wardrobe (because he’s quite the looker) and we took pictures of him wearing our socks and we attached to that, stories that he writes. The concept is about Joburg and the relationship we as artists have with the city. We also have another collaboration with one of the biggest rappers in the country, Ma-E, that we’re doing currently. We’re doing other things currently with The Soil,
How to get yourself a pair: Skinny Sbu Socks are available at Fashion Kraal in the Joburg CBD. People can also contact me directly on 084 869 5620. We’re also using whatsapp because, mainly people go via the online store route, but we’re saying, you’re not buying a house or a car here, you’re just buying a simple pair of socks. Why not buy it while you’re chatting to your friends? So, you can send us a whatsapp and we deliver socks throughout the country. People can follow us on twitter, @ skinnysbusocks on Instagram and Facebook: Skinny Sbu Socks. By: Phumzile Twala
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Image coutersy of Zamusicfest records
Spot on
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CLAUDINE SULTRY VOCALIST TALKS ABOUT HER LOVE FOR MUSIC, DREAM COLLABORATIONS AND GIVES HER TAKE ON WHY LOCAL FEMALE VOCALISTS AREN’T WORKING TOGETHER I catch up with Claudine as she’s making her way to studio. She lets me know that we can chat comfortably once she gets there. Sounding flustered, she admits that she’s a bit nervous, but I reassure her there’s no need, she should be fine. Later on in our interview she describes herself as a ‘fun-loving, super talented vocalist, that’s obsessed with all kinds of music.’ We had a chat about her take on the local music industry, her love for music and her upcoming EP “Love in My Head.” Tell us about your musical influences. Geez, it’s a broad range. It’s everybody from SIA, I like the way she writes, to Rihanna, (I’ve always been a fan of hers from the day she came out), to Black Coffee because I do House music myself, to Leona Lewis, ‘cause I think she sings like a dream, David Guetta… Of the genres you do, is there a specific one that’s closest to your heart? I would definitely say House music. That’s what I relate to and love the most, ‘cause it’s up-tempo, it’s fun, it gets the party started, people dance to it. Even if you sing something that’s very sad and heart-breaking, it’s over a track that makes you wanna get up and dance. As an artist, as a songwriter, what inspires your work? What type of mood do you have to be in when you write? It’s very sad to say (laughs) but, heartbreak! My first single is about a guy who broke my heart, so ya… (laughs) heartbreak is one of them. And the other one would be just self-love and self-motivation. I’ve got a song where I’m telling myself that you’ve got to fight for what you want, live out your dreams and do what makes you happy. If you could collaborate with your dream artist, who would it be and why? Does it only have to be one? Give me three. Ok…I had a feeling you were gonna ask me this, but I didn’t think of any actual artists. One would be David Guetta. I just love his stuff. I love electro music as well so, yeah. He features everybody from Nicki Minaj who raps, to Rihanna who sings. Black Coffee. I would love, love, love to work with him. I think his take on house music is really interesting and fun. A lot of international producers, like Rudimental- they praise him. They absolutely love him. When they were here they said they would love to do a collaboration with Black Coffee. Last One. I think I’d love to do a collabora-
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tion with Moneoa. I’ve noticed in the industry, like with the Hip Hop guys, there are a lot of features between the guys in general. With the females in the industry, there are barely any collaborations, unless it’s between a male artist and a female artist. I feel like there’s no empowerment amongst the girls. Maybe we could do an Afro-Soul track, or maybe a House track ‘cause she does both. Funny you should mention that, because Ntsiki Mazwai was talking about that on Twitter the other day. Why do you think that is though? Why aren’t ladies working together? Girls are funny creatures… We’re jealous of each other. We don’t necessarily want to build each other up. Even though when we’re asked in an interview about that kind of thing, we’ll put on a front, and be like, ‘Women empowerment and girl power, we must build each other...’ but if that were the case, then maybe Bucie would have collaborated with Moneoa, or Monoea would have collaborated with Thiwe. So I just think girls don’t really want the competition and I don’t think it should even be competition. The South African industry is already a small industry, so I think we should build each other up. Do you have any plans on releasing a full album? I’m about to release an EP in the new year and that’ll have only five or six tracks. And I’ve already started writing for an actual album, which will only come out end of 2015. So right now I’m trying to get songs on the radio and doing as many gigs as possible. I’ve still got a long way to go. The EP is strictly House. I wanted to have some Electro on the album, but those tracks aren’t done yet. There is one song called ‘Dance with me’ which is House, but it’s got that international LatinAmerican sound to it, but the EP is predominantly House.
Just related to that question, what’s your take on the digital revolution’s impact on sales in South Africa? A lot of artists have resorted to just releasing singles instead of full albums. What’s your take on that? I support that way. A lot of people download music. If you want to get a song asap, you’re gonna download it. It is kind-of sad that people prefer to download than to buy an album, but when you’re making an album and actually having it packaged and marketed, a lot of money goes into that, and when you’re an up-and coming artist you don’t always have the resources, so the best way to go is to release a single and hope that it gets downloaded the legal way so that you do get your royalties and payments for it. Currently signed to Zamusicfest Records, singer, songwriter, dancer and model, Claudine has also been included in numerous advertising campaigns and brand promotions, for Castle Lite, Nandos and Southern Comfort. The “Love in my Head” EP features production by Grounded Oaks, Proff and Bongzin. Her single “Let You Go” is available for download here: www.datafilehost.com/d/308afa90 By: Phumzile Twala
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KEIRA KNIGHTLEY TO DEBUT ON BROADWAY
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Theatre news
Best known for her film work, Keira Knightley is set to make her debut on Broadway in October 2015. Helen Edmundson’s staged adaptation of Therese Rauin, directed by Evan Cabnet will have an official opening on 29 October 2015. The play is based upon the novel by Emile Zola: “In this tale of love, lust, betrayal and guilt, Therese has made peace with her loveless marriage to a weak man when her world is turned upside down by Laurent walking through the door. Unable to ignore their passion, the pair sets off on a violent path that may have far worse consequences for the perpetrators than for the victims.” Knightley made her West End debut in 2009 at the Comedy Theatre. Full casting will be announced at a later date. 43
INTERMISSION YOUTH THEATRE PRESENTS: ‘TAMING WHO?’ It’s Fresher’s week at Uni and Petruchio arrives on campus full of excitement with his younger brother Grumio. However, an unexpected call from their Dad quickly turns them into despair: he wants them to come and live with him in Nigeria as there is no one to look after them in London. In a moment of panic Petruchio tells his Dad that he is married. Surprisingly contented by the news, Dad allows them to stay, but will travel to London to meet her… Petruchio has three days to find a wife! He is introduced to Katherine: the headstrong, obdurate, and eponymous shrew. Never one to turn down a challenge, Petruchio vows to woo her, but this is one challenge too far. The show ends 22 November 2014 at St. Saviour’s Church, Walton Place, London.
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Theatre
heartsandeyes-co-za
MY NAME IS RACHEL CORRIE Performed to sold out shows at the National Arts Festival last year, ‘My Name is Rachel Corrie’ is currently showing at the Market Theatre, ending its run on 23 November 2014. The critically acclaimed show also had a successful run at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. On 16 March 2003, Rachel Corrie, a twenty-three year old American, was crushed to death by an Israeli Army bulldozer in Gaza as she was trying to prevent the demolition of a Palestine home. After her death, letters that Rachel had written home were published in the Guardian Newspaper. When Alan Rickman read them, he was struck by the power of her writing and the dramatic potential of the work. Here was a story that the world needed to hear, told so eloquently and poignantly, in the words of the victim herself. Rachel, a young student; a budding artist and a writer, left her own home in Olympia, Washington to join the International Solidarity Movement in the Palestinian Occupied Territories. My Name is Rachel Corrie is a one-woman play composed from Rachel’s own journals, letters and e-mails, creating a portrait of a “messy, articulate, chain-smoker with a passion for the music of Pat Benatar.” A Hearts & Eyes production, the show is directed by Jacqueline Dommisse and stars Kate Liqourish in the title role. 45
THE ART OF THE BRICK US artist Nathan Sawaya’s world-renowned Lego art exhibition, “The Art of Brick” is set to showcase in South Africa. Proclaimed as one of the world’s must see exhibitions by CNN and featuring up to 70 sculptures created using Lego bricks, the exhibition will include his most famous work to date, ‘Yellow’ as well as the T-Rex skeleton made from 80 000 Lego bricks , measuring over six metres in length. Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Van Gogh’s Starry Night and the Venus de Milo have also been recreated by the artist using Lego bricks. Barcoded Magazine
“Art and Lego transcend culture and language and speak to adult and kids’ curiosity and creative aspirations. I hope that visitors will draw inspiration and experiment with a variety of art forms,” says Sawaya. The exhibition will showcase at the new Watershed Exhibition Centre at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town in December. It will then head to Joburg in May 2015, for an exhibit in Rosebank. Tickets are available from Computicket at R140 for adults and R95 for kids. For more information visit the website at www. theartofthebricksa.co.za, Facebook at www.facebook.com/theartofthebricksa and follow them on Twitter @BrickmanZA.
Exhibitions
WAR GAMES Providing an exploration of the fascinating relationship between conflict and children’s play, the War Games’ exhibition is showcasing at the Victoria & Albert Museum in the UK. The exhibition looks at the ways toys have been influenced by warfare from 1800 to the present day. This thought-provoking exhibition reveals the sometimes surprising links between play and wider attitudes towards warfare, and delves into
the secret history of toys as tools of propaganda and espionage. The exhibition is highly interactive, encouraging children to dress up, play at espionage and engage in many other activities that encourage learning, while photography, film and games all contribute to a diverse and stimulating experience. The display encourages visitors to question their own views and contribute to a debate on playing at war. 47
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Opportunities
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Opportunities
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CALL FOR SA-UK SEASONS PROPOSALS The British Council and the South African Department of Arts and Culture have launched a call for entries for proposals from artists and institutions to be part of the SA-UK Seasons project. The call for submissions ends on 23 November 2014. The SA-UK Seasons project will build on arts initiatives already developed by the British Council Connect ZA programme, which connects the creative communities of the UK and South Africa, and the South African Season in the UK. The Seasons will create a platform for the arts communities in SA and UK to cooperate and collaborate and the awarding of grants to artists and arts institutions aims to strengthen cultural relationships through work in the visual arts theatre, dance, cinema, literature, music, creative economy and skills development. Bongani Tembe, Commissioner- General of the SA Seasons in the UK, said, ”We aim to positively influence each other and establish a shared thinking on arts , culture and creative industry issues as well as build partnerships around opportunities for both our countries’ artists and arts institutions. We are particularly looking at alleviating the challenges of job creation, promoting innovation and nurturing leadership of the arts for the future.” Entries must be submitted online at www.southafrica-unitedkingdom.com/ For more info, visit: www.dac.gov.za or www.britishcouncil.org.za
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FREE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS IN DURBAN The Durban Art Gallery will be hosting free workshops for the creative industries in and around greater Durban. The workshops are designed to assist creative who wish to enhance their professional practice skills, including: networking; artists’ portfolio of work online and off; helpful online resources; marketing yourself/brand and knowing your value; galleries and agent; funding; writing funding proposals and where to find these funds; residencies, projects, collaborations; how to price and where to sell your work etc. Venues: Inanda, Ntuzuma & Kwa-Mashu Creative Centre (1 Mdubu Road) Date: 12 & 13th November 2014 Mountview Hall (Amora Dr off Inanda Road) Date: 25th & 26th November 2014 Isiphingo Hall (18 Delta Road) Date: 5th & 6th December 2014 Entrance is Free, but booking is essential. All workshops will start at 09h00-15h00 daily. Please bring notebooks and pencils, and refreshments. If interested, contact Witty Nyide on 031 311 2274 or witty.nyide@durban.gov.za
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ART LOVERS 1932 COMPETITION Entries are now open for the annual Art Lovers 1932 competition. Open for 2D works, the competition’s judges will focus on the application of technical skills in the chosen medium, works that are aesthetically pleasing and of high quality and standard. Although concept is important and works must be contemporary of nature, technical excellence in executing the work is critical. During the first two weeks of the exhibition at the gallery, visitors to the gallery will be asked to vote for their favourite work. As the owners of the gallery support the development of young artists, there will also be a R5000 prize for the best work submitted by an under 25 year old. Entries close on Thursday 19 March 2015. The judging panel includes Diane Victor, Carl Jeppe and Loeritha Saayman. Not all work received will form part of the exhibition, as the judges will also be tasked to curate the work for the exhibition, opening on Thursday 09 April 2015. All winners will be announced at a closing event on Thursday 23 April. Prize money: R17 500- First prize as adjudicated by the judging panel R10 000- Second prize as adjudicated by the judging panel R12 500- First prize as adjudicated by visitors to the gallery R5000- Prize to the work with the most merit, submitted by an under 25 year old 3x R2000 merit prizes Entry forms can be obtained from the gallery or on email request to artlovers1932@gmail.com.
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HELLO AMBASSADOR CREATIVE CONFERENCE COOL KIDS OF THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY CONGREGATE TO SHARE KNOWLEDGE Barcoded Mag recently attended day one of the 2014 edition of the Hello Ambassador Creative Conference, held at the State Theatre in the Pretoria CBD. Featuring an exciting line-up of some of the country’s brightest creative minds, the conference offered creative individuals an opportunity to engage with some of the best and biggest names in the industry. They didn’t disappoint. Arriving just as the formidable BASA CEO Michelle Constant was about to conclude her talk, we were greeted by her reminder that “There is a new creative economy in which artists will increasingly have a part to play.” The featured speakers for the day included: Mike Sharman, Michael Leslie, Willem van den Heever, Xabiso Vili, Abey Mokgwatsane, Jana & Koos, Tim Horwood, Louis Minaar, Pierre Du Plessis and Kagiso Lediga. Each speaker packaged a wealth of valuable knowledge into their allotted time. One could be forgiven for thinking Mike Sharman was there for a stand-up comedy gig. His brilliance on stage was by far the highlight of the day as he gave a lively, highly engaging talk on “The Future of Video.” A master at skilfully weaving through the audiences’ guffaws and dropping some heavy knowledge on how to get ahead in the industry, Sharman kept attendees enthralled with his rapidfire presentation. A favourite of the videos he showcased was one called ‘Jozi Jockeys,’ a thrilling advertisement for the Sansui Summer Cup. (You’ve never seen anything like this. Trust me.) The work he displayed and described definitely lived up to Retroviral’s ethos of creating Remarkable Content. Michael Leslie, introduced as a sneaker aficionado and youth culture expert shared his insight on “The State of Youth Culture (and what’s our responsibility?)”. Kicking off his presentation with the concept of youth culture being an independent state, the ANDPEOPLE founder went on to encourage people to” invest in scenes, not media only.” “Young people should be treated more like actors and less like consumers.”
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20-year-old Willem van den Heever, an independent filmmaker, kicked of the Wildcard Sessions by informing attendees about the exciting news of his film “Dropping in” being set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Advising artists and creative to “follow the passion not the money” he divulged how his journey to success came about, following an inspiring encounter with a speaker at last year’s conference, Sibs Shongwe La Mer. His advice centered on grabbing available opportunities as young people and making the best of any resources one has. Social commentator and poet Xabiso Vili’s stance focused on three keywords he purported poetry should do: engage, entertain, affect. His articulation cleverly swirled around a quote projected on to the screen, simply stating: “I slam. Therefore I am!” His succinct performance successfully engaged, entertained and affected. “The big are not always going to eat the small, but the fast always eat the slow.” Ogilvy & Mather SA CEO Abey Mokgwatsane’s engaging presentation on “How agencies are fighting for survival” was a thrilling experience. Tapping into crevices of the mind (in a way only a creative can do) his contribution to the conference featured a highly informative yet fun introspection into the world of ad agencies and the challenges they face with the rapid acceleration of technological advancement as well as changing consumer needs and perceptions. Kagiso Lediga, comedian, producer, writer and actor recalled his journey of how he became better at telling stories, with his signature side-splitting dry humour. From his PMS days to getting slayed on twitter (a while back when Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola debuted on TV) to a second Emmy Award Nomination for the show announced a few weeks ago, his has been a palpable adventurous journey. Moral of the story: dreams do come true and becoming a comedian can be an actual career path. His almost floor-length ginger dreadlocks have sometimes superseded his reputation 53
over the years but make no mistake, Tim Horwood has a mean creative streak. Announcing his turn on the podium with an epic ‘Notorious T.I.M.’ video complete with required bling and on-camera celebrity endorsement, to a resounding round of applause, he dove right into his topic of “Africa Re-imagined.” Heading one of youth cultures’ most exciting and influential platforms (Horwood is MTV Base Channel Director & Viacom Creative Director) he duly noted “It’s a huge responsibility.” He touched on a range of topics from aspirational elements, socio-economic
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challenges faced by artists on the continent, to creative career options. He went on to showcase an array of videos highlighting their contributions to shifting mind-sets about artists on the continent. “We need to define our own aesthetic and moral and creative space. It’s up to us. The shift is happening.” by : Phumzile Twala
What we learned from #HA2014:
Mike Sharman Co-founder, Retroviral & Webfluential “Know your audience. Don’t underestimate the power of YouTube. It’s also important to put some sort of media and influencers behind video content.”
Michael Leslie Youth Culture Engagement Specialists ANDPEOPLE founder “When investing in a scene, you create relationships. Authenticity and integrity are vital”
Pierre Du Plessis Flaneur, Trend analyst, Speaker “Randomness is a gift. Imagination is in the dark.”
Louis Minnaar Director, animator, designer, illustrator, musician “This year I stopped breathing. Little bits of pressure can build up. Start rethinking the way you approach your life.”
Xabiso Vili Performer, writer, social activist
“A book commits suicide every time you watch Jersey Shore.”
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SOWETO ART AND CRAFT FAIR GREAT PLATFORM FOR CELEBRATING, SELLING AND PROMOTING LOCAL ART Taking place every first Saturday of the month, the Soweto Art and Craft Fair is set on its way to becoming a premier event on the arts calendar. Every first Saturday from 10am to 5pm the Soweto Theatre comes alive with a vast array of art exhibits, face-painting, live music and poetry performances. Barcoded Mag attended the fair last month where young and old were present to appreciate and support the arts. One of the exhibitors candidly marvelled at the fact that older artists arrived as early as 10am to set-up. “As young people, we could really learn from them and take part in initiatives such as these, in addition to taking them more seriously,” said Oupa Mahlaba. Artist Lungile Mdlalose’s beaded shoes were on display. She told us, “I don’t really have a name for my brand. Some have called my shoes ‘Thandekile.’ What I’m really excited about as well is that my shoes have sold to what you can call a more ‘trendy’ market.” She added, “What I love about this fair is that it’s a great opportunity to network and get our work out Barcoded Magazine
there.” Lutendo Bulwana’s work was on exhibit, proudly displaying his live sketching skills, sculpture work and paintings. Currently studying art, he revealed his love of art from a young age, “I’ve been drawing and painting since Primary School.” Fifi Modise of Orlando East Art and Craft told of the passion she and her co-workers share for the arts. “We’re based at the Orlando East municipal offices. I’m the youngest person in the team and I’m making some dynamic changes. What I can tell you is that we’re working very hard to get more exposure from community papers and regional newspapers as well.” With a focus on promoting traditional art, the team also specialises in tweaking office wear, beaded accessories and bags. Held in conjunction with the Word and Sound Poetry festival, the fair continues to attract a growing, diverse crowd. The fair’s line up was augmented by ‘Savage Lucy’, a rock group as well as another main performance by Pretoria based ensemble, ‘The Trip’ whose mesmerizing and enchanting sounds had the
audience in a trance. They described their genredefying music as “African sounds.” A sultry performance by Claudine featuring soulful house music from her upcoming EP had the crowd on their feet as they enjoyed the festivities. Mahlaba, who was representing ‘Dream 2 Reality and Mr K Print & Design’ commented of the encouraging reception from attendees. “A lot of people come to support us. Some even give us input as to how we can improve. A lot more young people
should be taking advantage of this great platform.” Follow Soweto Art and Craft Fair on Twitter: @ SACF_Market. Lutendo Bulwana (Sketch artists, painter, sculptor): 079 069 9927 Orlando East Art & Craft (Contact Person: Fifi Modise): 079 333 4425 Dream 2 Reality (Contact Person: Oupa Mahlaba): 074 867 9929 By: Phumzile Twala
TRACKSIDE LIVE
CREATIVE HUB FOR ARTISTS TO SHOWCASE Trackside Live is a creative hub for artists to share their artwork, that’s been running for 3 years. Held every Thursday opposite Phefeni Station in Soweto, the events feature live art work on exhibit. “What makes this event unique are the roundtable discussions we have to critique artists who showcase,” says Fumani who also goes by the name ‘FumezOntheMic.’ Artists are encouraged to practise their art live in front of audiences. Fumani adds, “Roundtable Discussions are used to encourage education on issues such as copyright, etc” In addition to the roundtable discussions, workshops are hosted, where young people are shown how to do certain forms of art live. Check out their website www.tracksidelive.co.za for more info about the events. Follow them on Twitter: @tracksidelive and like them on Facebook Trackside Live. 57
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Pure art news
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DOCU-SERIES CELEBRATES URBAN AFRICAN ARTISTS: AFRIPEDIA A five-part documentary series has been developed by Stocktown Films. It aims to provide intimate portrayals into the lives of creative from African cities. The filmmakers wanted to create a visual information resource for viewers who are eager to discover the cultural scene across the metropolises in Africa. The film’s director Teddy Goitom explained, “We want to bring forward voices and stories that weave together a challenging, unconventional and inspiring view of Africa.” Artists from Kenya, Angola, South Africa and other countries on the countries on the continent are included in the series. Stocktown Films plans to release a longer more in-depth feature film in 2015.
GLEN LUCHFORD LAUNCHES PHOTOGRAPHY RETROSPECTIVE: PICTORIALISM Glen Luchford has created a photographic montage consisting of prints, polaroids, tear sheets and ephemera, which chronicles the last 33-years of his career. The British fashion photographer’s work features celebrity portraits, advertising campaigns for Prada, Yves Saint Laurent, Chloe and Calvin Klein and more. His influential and imaginative style reinvigorated fashion photography In the 1990s and 2000s. Now residing in Brooklyn, New York, the self-taught photographer was one of the first to collaborate with model Kate Moss. His style is influenced by his love of cinema.
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STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST AWARD WINNERS 2015 The National Arts Festival announced the 6 winners of the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Awards for 2015 at a ceremony held on October 28th. This brought the number of total winners of the award to 137, from inception in 1984. Awarded to young South African artists who are either on the threshold of national acclaim, or whose artistic excellence has enabled them to make international breakthroughs, it also offers winners an opportunity to showcase at the National Arts Festival. The 2015 winners are: Luyanda Sidiya for Dance Nduduzo Makhathini for Jazz Kemang Wa Lehulere for Visual art Musa Nqgungwana for Music Athi-Patra Ruga for Performance Art Christiaan Olwagen for Theatre
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BASA CEO BEMOANS PROPOSED ARTS FUNDING REDUCTION BY LOTTERY BASA CEO Michelle Constant says, “The changes to the Lottery funding rule will hurt the arts sector.” In an article published in Business Day, she suggested that proposed regulation changes published by the Department of Trade and Industry have two clauses which will have negative effects on the arts industry. The first is the restriction of three-year grant agreements to the charities sector only. “No different to charities, arts and sports organisations need to be able to employ staff, embark on long-term projects and plan for their future. The security provided by a three-year grant also informs other funders and partners of the sustainability of the organisation, in turn making it a more attractive funding proposition.” The draft regulations also stipulate how the Lottery pool is divided, and the Arts, Culture and National Heritage Sector now sees its share reduced from 28% to 20%-a cut of nearly one third. “This, in our view, is unjustifiable. The Arterial Network research suggests that the Lottery is the primary funder of the arts, responsible for between 80 and 90 percent of all arts funding. Reducing this by one third will simply accelerate the closure of even more organisations,” said Constant.
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JOSEPH EZE
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Artist focus
USING ART TO BRIDGE GAP BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY NIGERIAN CULTURE Nigerian artist Joseph Eze is a mixed media artist who incorporates painting, sculpture and installation techniques into his work. He also has a keen interest in Architecture and Design as well as fashion. His work often reflects the cultures of his home country and tackles difficult topics such as the way women are treated. Through his work he has also examined the boundaries between traditional and contemporary Nigerian culture. Some of his work from earlier this year dealt with the subject of the female body. Drawing on the ancient practice of bodily decoration in the south-eastern region of Nigeria, his portraits depicted embellished female forms, very much akin to contemporary tattoo culture. The series of portraiture dealt with the intersection between Nigeria’s politics and the female body. His work seems to continuously use the body as a platform for exploring the meaning of identity. One of his most powerful pieces is a portrait from 2012 titled ‘Everyday’ which typifies how a man regards a wife he sees every day. He sees nothing special about her, after all, he comes back home every day to see her and eventually she is like a piece of furniture. Born in 1979, Eze had his first solo exhibition, ‘Inside of me’ in 2002 at Castledown Art Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos. A graduate of University of Nigeria, Eze pondered over post-graduation dilemma of most artists in a 2009 exhibition called ‘What They Did Not Teach Me In Art School.’ Two years later he explored the professional lives of artists in another show called ‘Hyphen.’ This show, he claimed, focused on artists’ dynamism rather than the dilemma. He noted that as the collection tastes of the society change in content, artists have no choice but to catch up with that satiation, hence such identity as ‘painter-designer,’ and sometimes an odd one like ‘painter-carpenter.’ In the piece titled ‘Scrutiny and Surrender’ he documents how people submit themselves to all manner of scrutiny at the airport, in the quest to travel abroad in search of greener pastures. But Eze asks, “Are the pastures any greener elsewhere?” He has exhibited in Lagos, Abuja, Austria, France and USA. Since leaving Art school he has lived and practiced in Lagos state.
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DELA NAN Founded by Transkei native Nanini Mgandela, Dela Nan is a proudly local emerging brand described as a “luxurious brand targeted at an upper market.� The bags and accessories feature
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innovative designs, some incorporating recycled bags. Describing herself as always having had a love for fashion, Mgandela decided to venture into the industry in 2009.She is currently based in Johannesburg, corner Eloff and Jeppe street. Follow Dela Nan on Facebook and Twitter @ dela_nan. Alternatively, call her on 073 424 8345.
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KWEZI COMICS Speaking to Kwezi Comics’ Marketing manager Rolihlahla Mhlanga, he reveals that the inspiration behind the comic was “to inspire young people.”
in an aim to preserve African culture,” Mhlanga explains.
The 19-year-old supernatural character is the brainchild of Loyiso Mkhize, who designs for Su“Kwezi provides something the youth can idol- pastrikas. The independent project has made ize. This is our form of propaganda essentially. 3000 limited edition copies available for sale at Young people need something positive; it’s a various fairs around Johannesburg and Cape way for us to tell our stories.” Town. “The narrative is in English, but also includes Visit www.kwezicomics.co.za for more info. some African languages and touches on folklore,
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ZOOKEEPER CREW “Passion Lifestyle Movement.” Three words used to describe the ethos behind Zookeeper. An upcoming brand started by three friends in their 20s, from Zola, Soweto, Zookeeper showcased for the first time at SACF in October. Nkosana “Frost” reveals, “We always loved handcraft, so we YouTubed how to knit and taught ourselves.” This resulted in them coming up with innovative designs incorporating street culture trends, such as wool ‘bucket hats.” Unusual and colourful with bold, eye-catching designs, Zookeeper oozes youth-consciousness. Get hold of @ZookeeperCrew on twitter and Facebook.
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YOUR PULSE GALLERY Your Pulse Gallery is a local brand of hand-made accessories created by Palesa Makua. Describing her creative process, she reveals, “My pieces are inspired by my dreams. I didn’t study for this or anything.” Her gallery houses local brands and has had “an amazing reception from people,” according to Makua. With pieces ranging from R10 to R130, Your Pulse Gallery prides itself on using proudly South African material. Contact Your Pulse Gallery here: 083 311 7210 or email yourpulsegallery@gmail.com
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DITSALA DESIGNS Koketso Mohlala, who hails from Pretoria is the founder and owner of Ditsala Designs. A qualified jewellery designer, she tells us that she studied at Atteridgeville Jewellery Project and Umjindi. “I worked for 3 years to gain experience afterwards.” Her pieces, which mix beadwork and metal, are mainly inspired by the African continent. “I found that a lot of local trends were copying jewellery designs from the US, so I wanted mine to be different and to stand out,” she explains. Her pieces are described as “modernised traditional pieces” by Mohlala. Email info@ditsaladesigns.co.za or call 079 608 0503.
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GAME CHANGE! We live in a world where everything and everyone is tech savvy from a young age. Games have taken a different twist and turn from outdoor fun to indoors as more and more people have transitioned from playing the African games we grew up playing to video games, PSP consoles and handheld devices; even six year olds no longer go outside to play they are trapped in their rooms and first thing when they wake up their video games are all they think of. Games are good for kicking boredom out the roof, they are fun, keep one occupied and pass time and if anyone disagrees then they probably need a test run on that joy stick. Games have really improved for both better and worst because
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to some extent not all indigenous games cater for the young adult group and honestly people would really see you as weird if you were to still be playing hide and seek at the age of 23 because they consider your playing days over. At that age expectations are that you should be focusing on getting a job and building a career, but with video games you can play indoors with your friends, siblings or even alone on those chilled weekends when you do not want to step foot out of your front door. So with that said I can safely say there is some good in the transition of games because it caters for both young and old, but the problem comes when one gets just a little addicted to these types of games way past bedtime and skipping morning meals. They can get very addictive to a point where you spend hours playing and forgetting that there is a life outside of these games and
honestly games cause more harm than good. Downside of games People who spend their time indoors most of the time and not outside or interacting with other people over time- it becomes hard for them to get along with people when they find themselves in a crowd so instead they isolate themselves and fixate their eyes and thumbs on their handheld devices playing games. This even creates problems for them later in life of not being able to get along with other people. Most of the games are of a violent nature and include dangerous weapons and guns and so in a way they condone violence and contribute to these factors. Besides the mental state modern games have physical effects on one’s health and psychologists have confirmed that most heart diseases are reportedly due to lack of activity in the human body. Because people do not move or exercise their bodies when playing these games they are more prone to illnesses such as heart failure, obesity and eye problems as well as problems with their fingers especially thumbs later on in life. When we look at the games we grew up playing you can see that back then you lived a healthier lifestyle than you do now, as you were more active physically and mentally. It’s also likely that you were surrounded by friends more often and had no problem getting along with other people. It’s likely you weren’t complaining of backaches as most of the games required one to use their whole body in order to participate. Games like hop scotch, skipping rope, hide and seek, netball, soccer, and any other creative games you can remember from your time included a lot of activity. Most people would actually have good memories of back in the days when they were young and things were much simpler and they actually enjoyed the company of others and also playing games which had a purpose for the body and mind. Company initiatives…. Companies such as Kellogg’s, Bokomo and other brands have tried to keep the spirit of indigenous games alive through initiatives such as putting games like snakes and ladders, Mora-
baraba, mazes, crosswords on their packaging but they have since stopped probably realizing that modern technology is taking over the world by storm on another level. What next? Going forward it would really not hurt at all if companies would partner with schools and hold competitions and tournaments for indigenous games starting from local until national level. This will help bring the ball back onto the African soil. Also, it would be admirable if there could be a television show that only focused on indigenous games on the sports channels to promote the games which have been really forgotten. Video games have certainly changed how things are done but it would also be good if most of the created games were not gender biased and promoted friendliness and also allowed for more team players than just a single person. Another great move would be if they could also be wireless-it would be awesome to be able to take them outside and play with your friends instead of being inside your room the whole day. By: Phumi Nyalungu
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BECOMING A VIDEO GAME SPECIAL EFFECTS ARTIST
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Nathaniel Hubell is a video game special effects artist who has worked on big-budget franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Spore and X-Men. He’s described his work as containing a lot of variety: “The art I make can be simple and subtle, like a couple of moving clouds in the background. Or it can be complex and flashy, like all the superpowers in a superhero game.” He spoke to gameindustrycareerguide.com about what it takes to become a video game special effects artist. On what he finds appealing about this career: In large part, special effects exist to make the player think: “Oh wow, look at that!” In other words, effects are there to be COOL. Delivering that kind of visually impressive moment holds tremendous appeal for me, particularly when I’m tackling something I’ve never made before. What skills are required: You’ll want to have a solid grasp of several related fields. You need to be a problem-solver. You need social skills. This is true of any job in game development. You have to be a good communicator: articulate, efficient and proactive without being abrasive. Your job will be much easier if you’re easy for others to work with. What you need to get started: Ideally, you’ll want to learn a little bit of everything, because just about every area of digital art production is important. Basic colour theory, composition, painting, modelling, texturing and animation are all essential. You’ll also want to know about rigging, shaders, physics simulation, and as much scripting/coding as you can manage. Also, a few particulars: Learn to make fire, water, clouds/smoke, explosions, lightning/electricity, and motion trails. Those six things are especially common tasks for effects artists, so they’re good to have in your repertoire. Learn to do them in different styles, using different method, both 2D and 3D if possible. Choose a school that gives you a broad survey of game art or animated film production. Anytime you can’t figure something out, look for online tutorials. The tech changes so fast that frankly I think books fall out of date too quickly. For the art side, do drawings or paintings of natural phenomena from observation. And read all the books on traditional art that you can get your hands on! Finally, study art history. This will help you learn about different styles. Sometimes you’ll find the best inspiration in art that’s well outside the game world!
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