On the first Thursday of April, SPACES AFRICA together with culture specialists and leading marketing digital agency, Fresh AF, invited a select South African creative community of like-minded tastemakers, curators, marketers & creatives for an intimate launch, conversation, and exhibition experience called CR8TOR-CON that took place in collaboration with SA Creatives & USURPA.
Held at the first Digital African Fine Art NFT gallery in Africa, USURPA, based in Johannesburg, the invite-only event extended as a re-introduction to SPACES AFRICA, a platform that has been committed to reimagining and redefining the creative spaces we inhabit since its establishment in 2016 and as an experience.
Not only did CR8TOR-CON serve as a mouthpiece & platform for creatives to elevate, engage & redefine the dynamics of our creative industry but it reinforced a commitment to embracing our creative industry by inviting renowned Southern Africa-based creatives such as Aart Verrips, Buqaqawuli Thamani Nobakada, Lazi Matebula, Hakopike, Chloe Andrea Welgemoed, Sonia Tona, Mpumelelo “Frypan” Mfula and Mishaal Gangaram, to mention only a few, a moment to participate in a curated panel discussion that focused on the themes of “Creativity & Collaboration” as well as showcase visual pieces of their creative expressions within the gallery itself.
The event was hosted by Shamiso Mosaka, who navigated guests towards a SPACES AFRICA & Fresh AF presentation that Jay Kayembe (Executive Creative Director at Fresh AF and SPACES AFRICA) took audiences through before the stage was set up for two-panel discussions made up of the mentioned selection of creatives that also included the likes of Dirty Native Chief, Nolan C. Kalwandu, Cherné Africa, Kgomotso Kiggy, Lelo Whatsgood, Espacio Dios, Kay Kay Ribane and Nene Mahlangu.
Both CR8TOR Conversations were moderated by Shamiso Mosaka & Fresh AF / SA Creatives Culture Curator, Rudzani “Roo” Netshiheni who led the dialogue that included exploring how creatives navigate the creative industry amongst other topics discussed.
Fresh AF & Spaces Africa Executive Creative Director Jay Kayembe stated “As a collective, our team has dedicated the past seven years to the development of Spaces Africa, fostering a platform that empowers young African creatives to exhibit their talents. It is immensely gratifying to witness the substantial backing from our esteemed partners who align with our vision and objectives, particularly evident during the inaugural CR8TOR-CON last night. The launch was both informative and inspirational for our diverse group of guests’.
The night also brought together sounds from BASMNT, Fif Laaa, Wendy Ntinezo, Deniece Marz, and IceCreamSundayz who entertained guests throughout the night before the CR8TOR-CON experience concluded with anticipation for what’s coming next.
“I’m thrilled about the launch of CR8TOR-CON with Spaces Africa. Together, we’re dedicated to elevating creatives into serious businesses. By combining our event production and advertising agency expertise with their platform, we’re empowering creatives to monetise their craft and reshape our industry. Thanks to all involved, and here’s to a future of collaboration and innovation. Africa to the world!” affirmed Fresh AF Managing Director Ally Fathana.
