The AAC, one of Durban’s most prominent galleries and community arts organisations, by means of workshops and training gives the province’s artisans regular input and advice on how to improve and market their products. New artists and crafters are constantly encouraged to join the programmes where their skills are nurtured, monitored and made marketable. The workshops, presented by Hlengiwe Dube and Nozipho Zulu from the African Art Centre during 2009, ensure that the crafters remain self-employed and receive a regular income for their families.

These services are extended to the rural regions of KwaZulu-Natal as far afield as New Hanover with the fruits of the initiative beautiful and bountiful indeed. At the exhibition at the AAC (94 Florida Road) which runs until the end of the year, vibrant and innovative items of all shapes and sizes are for sale. Bowls, plates, vases, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more created at the Siyazikhandla telephone wire workshops are on show as well as a large selection of skilfully beaded Christmas tree ornaments and decorations; colourfully beaded tableware, hand-built ceramic work and much more.