BASA Podcast

Join BASA Programmes Manager Zanele Madiba, creative entrepreneurs Jefferson Bobs Tshabalala, and Mathabo Tlali as they delve into "The Business in the Arts – More Than Just a 'Side Hustle.'” This podcast explores the intersection of business acumen and artistic expression, unpacking the dynamics, challenges, and opportunities within the arts industry. From entrepreneurial strategies to sustainable practices, we reveal what it takes to thrive as a creative entrepreneur in today’s landscape.

Artivism – How artists are using their creativity and artistic practices as a tool for activism.

In this conversation Bridget Masinga is joined by young creatives Amogelang Pila, Boitumelo Makousu alongside the Exhibitions and Events coordinator Lesole Tauatswale from Constitution Hill exploring the intersection of art and activism and the role of artists in creating social change through their art. In honour of Freedom Day, the conversation explores the concept of freedom of expression in the creative sector as they unpack the exhibition titled O M A N G? O T S W A K A E? O Y A K A E? Hosted by the Constitution Hill.

Young Rural & Creative seeks to explore and diagnose the journey of young rural-based creatives pre- and post-the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation aims to explore, reflect, and propose interventions foreasing the burden on rural-based creatives to enable them to maximise their talent. The podcast seeks to achieve this through a variety show model, also known as variety arts or variety entertainment, comprised of various acts, including musical performances, poetry, and dialogue with rural-based creatives.

Beyond the Rut – dives into a conversation with emerging artists Evaan Jason and Lithemba Nziweni about cultivating a healthy and sustainable lifestyle as a creative in the Eastern Cape.

They speak about creativity, trends, tools, authenticity, entrepreneurship, where to begin, and how to create something worthwhile.

Hosted by  Mzwakhe Khachela and Jane Mpholo, The theme in focus is ‘Theatre Then VS Now.’ The overall burning question of the discussion is "What led to Free State artists being more resistant to collaborative opportunities?” The guests are legendary Gerben Kamper and the fresh, innovative Karabelo Lekalake: Two different generations with totally different experiences.

A conversation on disruptive technologies and art disciplines in this emerging field within the South African creative economy (recorded online in 3 different cities in South Africa over Zoom); this podcast acts as a window into the mindsets of practitioners who work within these disruptive creative practices. The discussion focuses on the messaging and themes of these practitioners' work, through their own personal experience and practice, whilst serving as examples of how those in the South African Creative and Cultural Industries can actively participate in this field and find new ways in forging their own path.

In this episode, we take a look at the longstanding impact that Standard Bank has had on the creative industry with its continued support of new and established artists over the years. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Standard Bank Gallery is re-opening in person with its first multidisciplinary exhibition 'WE ARE CULTURE' featuring a wave of new voices in fashion, music, sculpture, performance art, and more. In order to shed some light on this exciting new chapter for the gallery, Samm Marshall chats with Standard Bank Gallery Manager, Dr. Same Mdluli, and independent folk singer and songwriter, Muneyi.

The real reward in recognition

What it means to win a BASA Award?

To be seen, heard, and ultimately understood. To stand before a group of like-minded contemporaries and accept their accolade is a universal desire.

BASA podcast host Samm Marshall speaks to BASA Head of Research Madeleine Lambert,BASA Award recipients Nadia Virasamy from Moving Into Dance and Mariapaola McGurk from the Coloured Cube about winning a BASA Award and working with business to develop creative expression,Together they will dissect both the implicit and explicit value of being judged by a jury of one’s peers and where the advantages lie.

Harnessing creativity - What is the formula for creating work that fuses culture, creativity, and commercial objectives?

Discussions with businesses who are working with creatives

As we are poised to recognise the 2021/2022 BASA Award recipients, we speak to past Awards adjudication panellists to understand how each successive Awards show gained a keen understanding through a review of the previous year’s ceremony.

Post pandemic have our priorities changed and where do Awards fit into it?

The pandemic has made us question everything and we have been asking those questions too. Looking back over the last 24 years, we ask whether Awards like the BASA Awards still matter - and who benefits ultimately.