Linga Diko & Art

Crew: Nqobile, Dinilohlanga,Simphiwe, Ukona, Justice

Egazini stands as a reminder of South Africa's cruel past, but today it represents hope, development and artistic expression for the artists of Grahamstown.
Egazini is located in extension six, Joza Location and it has been there since 2000. Once used as a place of torture for political activists during the apartheid regime, it is now a hub where young artists meet and explore their talents daily.
Some of the crafts produced by this project include printed fabric, t-shirt, bags, cushion covers, woodcuts, etchings and painting. All the artists which are part of the project are paid on commission basis. The project has also held exhibitions in Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, New York and London. A few of the artists working there participated in major art competitions like the FNB Craft and Brett Kebble Art Awards.
Linga Diko who is one of the members of Egazini Outreach Project says joining the club helped him grow his client base. Diko specialises in Batik art and painting. “My art reflects what goes on around my community and the country as a whole. In 2004 I was inspired by the rural woman of Limpopo who travel long distances to fetch water. I titled this particular piece –Amanzi awekho” says Diko.
The project finds a good time to expose their work during the Grahamstown Annual National Arts Festival, which draws thousands of people across the African continent.
Egazini which means “The place of blood” does not represent horror and death anymore, it now showcases the talent of the once under privileged youth of the country.