Art Writers needed for Open Studios Joburg
In support of emerging artists and writers, African Arts Content, an arts journalism development entity, will run a programme during OpenStudios.Joburg event that takes place in Johannesburg from May 27 to 28. It is funded by the Spier Arts Trust.
It is intended to benefit two unknown writers and one mid-career one based in this city. In line with previous programmes, run in Joburg in 2021 and 2022, and Cape Town in April, the focus is on emerging artists and engaging their work and the entities that support them. In line with this, it supports META foundation’s OpenStudios.Joburg event – the largest of its kind in South Africa that invites the public to peruse artist studios at nine different locations – Bag Factory Artists’ Studios, Lilian Road Studios, Play Braamfontein, Transwerke, Asisebenze, August House, Ellis House, Living Artists Emporium and Victoria Yards. The participating writers will be tasked with profiling some of the artists and their works at any of these venues and to reflect on this burgeoning event and the emerging art scene.
The entry-level writers will undergo a writing workshop and will be mentored by the prominent art commentator, consultant and arts ecosystem researcher Mary Corrigall.
The writers will be paid per story and will be expected to produce three articles which will be published by our media partners. In line with this the articles are aimed at a broad audience and are intended to connect readers to the artists and art featured.
New writers need to have;
A background, experience, knowledge or a degree in the visual arts.
Be able to demonstrate a sustained interest in writing and the South African art scene.
Be able to submit 3 examples of their writing (preferably on the visual arts).
A mid-career writer applying to participate in the programme needs to;
Have at least a five-year history of publishing articles on the visual arts or other art forms.
Be able to work independently to strict deadlines.
Be in possession of a portfolio of high-quality art writing or journalism.
Have experience in conducting interviews and translating them into entertaining features.
Interested writers can send their CVs, a motivation letter and examples of their writing by April 18, 2023 to: africanartcontent@gmail.com
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