Knysna, South Africa – 01 April, 2025 – Following the resounding success of the AIR (African Indigenous Renaissance) Festival in Kranshoek on Human Rights Day, March 21, 2025, the “Men of HeArt” exhibition has now moved to the historic Old Gaol Museum in Knysna. Running from March 31 to April 4, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, continuing the AIR Festival’s mission of empowering local and regional artists.

Curated by Gatsby Lubanza Mpoyi, a graduate of the AIR Development Programme, the exhibition marks his debut as a curator on a large scale. Mpoyi, an emerging conceptual fine artist with expertise in painting, sketching, and music, has brought together a powerful collection that redefines masculinity and human rights through the lens of African Indigenous Renaissance.

About the “Men of HeArt” Exhibition

The “Men of HeArt” exhibition is an introspective collection that delves into themes of identity, strength, resilience, and transformation. Featuring an all-male lineup, the exhibition challenges conventional perceptions of masculinity while providing a platform for artists to share their reflections on societal roles and cultural evolution. Through various artistic mediums, the exhibition emphasizes the role of art in driving important conversations about equality, heritage, and human dignity.

About the AIR Festival

Launched on March 21, 2025, in Kranshoek, the AIR Festival serves as a dynamic platform to unite South Africans through art, culture, and human rights dialogue. Highlights from the festival included high-energy dance challenges, indigenous craft exhibitions, and the vibrant celebration of Griqua cuisine and traditions. Organized by the Cape Town Arts Festival, in collaboration with the Ariva Arts Foundation and Bitou Municipality, the festival has quickly become a significant event on South Africa’s cultural calendar, merging artistic expression with community empowerment.

Following its debut in Kranshoek, the “Men of HeArt” exhibition continues its journey at the Old Gaol Museum, fostering discussions on masculinity and the evolving cultural landscape. This exhibition invites audiences to engage with these themes and experience the powerful intersection of art and human rights.

Remarks from the Festival Director

Yusuf Ganief, CEO of the AIR Festival, shared his thoughts on the exhibition’s relocation:
“The AIR Festival seeks to ignite meaningful conversations through artistic expression. By bringing this exhibition to Knysna, we extend the reach of this dialogue, creating a space where communities can reflect on the complexities of identity, culture, and transformation. Our goal is to provide a sustainable platform for artists from underserved and rural communities, ensuring their voices are heard far beyond the festival itself.”

For More Information

For details about the AIR Visual Art Exhibition and the AIR Festival, please contact: Gatsby Mpoyi on CELL: 072 557 7933

ENTRANCE IS FREE!