Arts Aweh!

The City of Cape Town’s Community, Arts and Culture Development Department (CACD) hosted various classes and exhibitions for aspiring young artists over the past seven months. The final event took place on Monday, 30 June 2025.

The Arts Aweh! programme provided young people, aged six to 18, with creative learning experiences and an opportunity to participate in various art forms.

The programme started in November, attracting 3 173 learners.

The Arts Aweh! initiative is an after-school programme designed to create opportunities for young people to explore and experience arts and cultural activities that are constructive, educational, and fun. Activities included drawing, painting, photography, hip hop, dance, performance, poetry, clay work and beading.

The programme also created job opportunities for young creatives, through the Expanded Public Works Programme.
It was hosted at 13 City-owned spaces throughout the City.

As part of the programme, the department held eight exhibitions during May and June in Belhar, Eerste River, Rocklands, Ocean View, Mfuleni, Mamre, Bonteheuwel and Athlone where learners showcased their art.

The exhibitions included 3D artwork made from recycled material, canvas painting, drawings, functional art pieces, clay work, sand art and rock art. During the exhibitions, learners participated in mini-concerts and fashion shows where they showcased their poetry, drama, dance and clothing they created from recycled material.

‘Programmes like Arts Aweh! give young people the tools and confidence to express themselves creatively, while also building valuable life skills. It’s inspiring to see how the arts can spark imagination, foster connection, and uplift communities. Not only does it help children develop fine motor skills and build self-esteem, but it also encourages self-expression where children can explore and communicate their emotions. We will continue to create opportunities and programmes where young people can learn and experience the beauty of art in its various forms,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.