Artists call out nepotism in department

ARTISTS in the Free State are threatening to close down the Provincial Department of Arts and Culture offices.

They claim their grievances have been ignored.

Recently, the South African Arts and Culture Youth Forum (Saacyf) submitted a memorandum of demands calling for recognition and inclusion in all events.

The artists are particularly upset with the newly formed Cultural Urban Festival Africa (Cufa), which they claim only features national artists and neglects local talent.

Saacyf Provincial Secretary Linda Ngqotwane said the department has been ignoring their concerns for years.

"The department should prioritise artists the same way they support sport tournaments. There are many abandoned buildings in our communities, especially in rural areas. We want these buildings transformed into theatres to be used for rehearsals by local artists," Ngqotwana said.

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"The department should stop undermining Free State artists. Macufe has been postponed for too long. In its absence, they introduced district festivals, which benefit service providers more than the artists. We want a home-brewed festival before December so that artists can earn a living."

The artists also criticised the Cufa festival held in Bloemfontein for focusing only on national artists and a football tournament between Kaizer Chiefs and Marumo Gallants, sidelining local talent.

Ngqotwane accused Arts and Culture officials of interfering in the selection of productions, poets, and musicians.

"The department should allow structures to do their job in identifying full-time and active artists. Many people call themselves artists only when there are district festivals. If you're not active, you shouldn't be considered. Officials must also stop gatekeeping in all programmes in the province. Every artist deserves to benefit. Nepotism and favouritism must end," she said.

"We also demand the immediate disbursement of Community Arts Centre (CAC) funds and an early AGM."

Saacyf Provincial Chairman Lekhutsa Mbele told Daily Sun they were tired of officials' shenanigans that are destroying the lives of artists in the province.

Mbele said they want a meeting with the MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Ntombizanele Sifuba, without her officials present.

"We need satellite centres in our communities. Mmabana has vacancies, but the Drama and Dance Departments are still inactive. The department must start hiring practitioners with reputable experience in development. At Lejweleputswa Arts Centre, we need posts for dance, music, cultural, and drama facilitators. Artists must apply and be employed. In the Thabo Mofutsanyana region, the Serumula event should benefit all artists, not just favourites, and it must rotate in the locations," Mbele said.

The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture is expected to respond to the grievances within seven working days.