The Bishop Lavis School of Skills has recently launched its own on-site studio, The Colour and Grain, at the school.
Mario Oostendurp, teacher at the school and one of the driving forces behind the idea says the creative space is the result of a unique collaboration between the Arts and Crafts and Woodwork classes. “Together, our learners have poured their talent, imagination and dedication into producing a range of artworks and handcrafted pieces that showcase not just skill, but resilience and hope. On the arts and crafts side side, visitors can explore striking bushman art interpretations, bright and expressive seaside scenes, beautiful variations of Van Gogh’s Starry Night, creative depictions of Cape Town life and a variety of other imaginative themes. On the Woodwork side, learners are showcasing functional and elegant furniture pieces, personalized keepsake boxes, unique freehand router designs, original freehand carvings, playful, handmade wooden toys,” says Oostendurp.
Gangsterism rife
Most of the learners are from Delft, Bishop Lavis, Kalksteenfontein and communities struggling with gangsterism.
According to Oostendurp beyond the art and craft lies a much deeper story. “Our learners come from some of Cape Town’s most disadvantaged communities. Areas marked by poverty and the daily struggles of gang violence. For them, the Colour & Grain Studio is more than just a display space. It is a place of growth, skill development and dignity. And we want to invite artists, creatives, galleries, institutions and industry partners to engage with us.
More exposure
“We want them to visit the Colour & Grain Studio and experience the learners’ work firsthand and collaborate with us to bring more resources, mentorship and exposure to our students. Partnerships can help us to grow this initiative so that our learners’ skills and creativity can open doors to future careers in art, craft and design,” he says.
