Kranshoek, South Africa – March 19, 2025 – The AIR Visual Art Exhibition, a standout event of the inaugural AIR Festival, will debut on Human Rights Day, March 21, 2025, in Kranshoek. This thought-provoking exhibition explores the role of art in balancing masculine energy, providing a platform for both established and emerging male artists to showcase their work. Curated by the accomplished fine artist Gatsby Lubanza Mpoyi, the exhibition promises to offer a unique visual experience, featuring a variety of artistic mediums.

About the AIR Visual Art Exhibition
“Air: Men of HeArt” features an all-male lineup of artists, each using their unique voice to reflect on an African Indigenous Renaissance. The exhibition presents powerful works exploring themes of identity, nature, resilience, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery. By highlighting the intersection of art and human rights, the exhibition emphasizes the importance of refining masculine energy within the broader narrative of dignity, equality, and freedom.

Gatsby Lubanza Mpoyi: Curator of the AIR Visual Art Exhibition
Gatsby Lubanza Mpoyi is a conceptual fine artist who brings a wealth of experience and cultural depth to the exhibition. Born into a family rich in cultural diversity, his work spans multiple disciplines, including painting, sketching, poetry, and music. Mpoyi’s vision is to provide a platform for creative expression that challenges norms, encourages dialogue, and fosters inclusivity. His passion for the arts inspires both seasoned and emerging artists to explore their creative journeys.

The exhibition will be showcased first at the Kranshoek Community Centre on Human Rights Day and will then move to the Knysna Old Jail for a two-week display.

For more information about the AIR Visual Art Exhibition, please contact Gatsby (072) 557 7933.

AIR Festival Overview
The AIR Festival, celebrating culture, community, and creativity, will also debut on Human Rights Day in Kranshoek. Organized by the Cape Town Arts Festival in collaboration with the Ariva Arts Foundation, the Griqua National Conference (GNC), Bitou Municipality and Plett Tourism, the festival aims to unite diverse cultures through the arts. With performances, exhibitions, and cultural activities celebrating African heritage, the event will spark conversations about human rights and social justice.

The festival will feature various attractions, including:

• AIR Dance Challenge: A dynamic competition blending traditional and contemporary dance styles.
• AIR African Craft Village: A marketplace showcasing handcrafted goods by local artisans.
• AIR Cultural Foods Highlight Griqua Cuisine: A celebration of local culinary traditions.
• Riel Dance, Craft, and Music: A showcase of indigenous performances.
• The Griqua Choir: A performance of soulful Griqua harmonies.

The AIR Festival will be headlined by the legendary Dizu Plaatjies and Ibuyambo, whose performances will bring African rhythms and powerful messages of unity to the stage.

The AIR Festival is proudly presented in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation and supported by Bitou Municipality, Griqua National Conference, Plettenberg Bay Tourism, and Tshisa Talent. It is funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture  (DSAC), Presidential Employment Stimulus Program (PESP5), Western Cape Government Cultural Affairs and Sport  (DCAS), and the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA) Development Fund.

Festival Director’s Quote
Yusuf Ganief, CEO of the AIR Festival, says, “The AIR Festival stands as a celebration of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. It is an invitation to all to engage in a broader conversation about human rights and community. Through art, dance, food, and music, we will unite to celebrate and reflect on our shared journey as a nation.”

This festival will be a landmark event promoting cultural understanding and tolerance, where tradition and innovation meet to highlight the importance of unity and human dignity in the global conversation on equality and social justice.

ENTRANCE TO THE EVENT IS FREE!