craft
What to expect at the Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair
Cassandra Twala, curator of one of Joburg’s favourite events — the Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair — talks handmade artisanal goods, luxury, diversity and the significance of the craft economy in Africa, and introduces us to a few newcomers
Sure, when you go to a craft market or a fair, you get to pick up some beautiful, unique items. At the Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair (SHmC), you get to pair your shopping experience with some lovely food and wine, in an atmosphere and style on another planet from your average craft market. SHmC has, over the nine years of its existence, played a significant role in showcasing the territory where craft meets luxury in SA.
"It’s one thing to have artisans who are selling from their store or selling online, but when you create this environment that brings all of them together, and then brings them the right audience, it really does create magic," says Cassandra Twala, now in her second year as SHmC curator. "It gives and it gives back." A look at the numbers suggests that this magic has also become a significant part of the craft economy, shaping its possibilities as much as creating a platform for exhibitors to sell their wares. Artlogic, the company that runs SHmC as well a...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.