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Disabled artists and crafters in South Africa are to a large extent excluded from mainstream art circles.  This was painfully evident when a small group of disabled artists from Camama Cheshire Home in Cofimvaba attended the National Arts Festival last year.  They were the only group representing disabled artists.  Due to financial constraints the artists were only able to stay four days, but this year they are planning on staying for the full Festival.

Heather Cousins from Camama Cheshire Home admits, “It was really difficult to arrange sponsorship for this year’s Festival.  However, I truly believe that any arts festival that excludes wares done by disabled artists, even unintentionally, is not complete.  Disabled artists produce excellent quality goods that bely their extreme physical disabilities.  The market is there — disabled artists and crafters just need a helping hand.”  When Disabled People South Africa were asked what challenges they face in respect of disabled art, Mandla Nkota said funding is a real problem.  “We used to get funding from European funders, but now they see South Africa as a developed country, so now we are left with no funding.  We arranged an exhibition of disabled art and craft back in 2003, and haven’t managed to do anything since,” says a disappointed Nkota.

Perhaps it is the organization of Cheshire Homes South Africa that will provide the next stepping stone for SA’s disabled art and craft community.  Cheshire Homes in South Africa are able to synchronise their artists and crafters and may be able to use their experience of attending art festivals and exhibitions to create a platform for artists and crafters with disabilities so that these deserving and hardworking individuals can take their place in the art industry.

This year South Africa has come together to make the 2009 National Arts Festival in Grahamstown one that celebrates disabled art and craft from all over South Africa.  “We have managed to secure some funding, although the money isn’t in the bank yet, so I don’t want to count my chickens, but it’s been great! All the Cheshire Homes (residential facilities for people with disabilities) in South Africa have contributed art and craft ranging from paintings, exceptional pottery, baskets and beadwork.  We are planning to absolutely show off! So everybody please come see our stall,” says Cousins.

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