The Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) sector in South Africa is undergoing a pivotal transformation aimed at strengthening its structure, representation, and impact. This process began at the CCI Bosberaad held at the Birchwood Hotel, OR Tambo Conference Centre from 29–30 August 2024, where key issues affecting the sector were brought to light, including the exploitation of artists, inadequate working conditions, limited funding opportunities, and the absence of a unified voice.

Building on the outcomes of the first Bosberaad, the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture convened a second session on 28 October 2024 to advance actionable solutions. Representatives from various sub-sectors participated, leading to the resolution to establish interim Sector Boards for each creative discipline. These boards are tasked with organising their respective sectors, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges such as copyright protection, fair labour practices, and equitable funding distribution.

On 28 October 2024, representatives were formally tasked with forming these Sector Boards. This call for nominations represents the next critical step in this journey. By forming the Interim Visual Arts Sector Board, we aim to assemble a group of dedicated individuals who will serve as stewards for the visual arts community, ensuring its voices are heard, its challenges addressed, and its future secured.

Your participation is vital to shaping a Sector Board that truly represents the diversity, talent, and aspirations of the South African visual arts community. This is an opportunity to contribute to the broader vision of strengthening the arts and cultural sector for generations to come.