The To Skin a Cat Fundraiser is an evening of music and an exhibition of funky multi-media artwork and light boxes by invited South African artists on December 17. All proceeds will go towards the production of the documentary film To Skin a Cat by Greg Lomas and Colwyn Thomas which represents a campaign aimed at saving the leopard populations in southern Africa.To Skin a Cat addresses the loss of leopard populations to an illegal skin trade in southern Africa. The film follows renowned leopard researcher Tristan Dickerson who is attempting to create a high-quality and affordable synthetic fur as an alternative to real skins being used for traditional purposes. The campaign has gathered support both locally and abroad.
“This is a critical time in the making of the film as in January 2012 Tristan Dickerson will attempt to introduce his final synthetic fur to members of the Shembe church at their annual gathering” said Colwyn Thomas. “The film is a solution-based film and documents a really positive and dynamic approach to conservation in the 21st Century. We’re working closely with all groups involved with the use of skins, mainly the royal family and the Shembe church, to come to a solution together that works for all parties.”
“Having an exhibition highlighting different interpretations of the beauty and allure of the leopard we hope will motivate people to help our film, which is working to preserve this beautiful species.” adds Greg Lomas.
The fundraiser combines an exhibition with performances from Thomas Krane, Aiden Cornhill and The Trees. Artworks, each created around the theme of 'leopard', have been donated from a number of artists, illustrators and photographers from around the country and will be on sale on the evening.
All artwork on the evening will be less 30% after which the gallery rates will apply from December 18. This includes work by Colwyn Thomas, Skullboy, Christian Mugnai, Faith 47, Greg Lomas, James Kydd, Lauren Fowler, Elizabeth Ann Ross, Charl Senekal, Chris Galliers, Mary-Anne Hampton and Craig Hayman.
To Skin a Cat Fundraiser takes place at the KZNSA Gallery on December 17 from 18h00 to 21h00. The R50 entrance fee will be donated to the To Skin a Cat project. Card-carrying KZNSA members are offered free entrance.
There will be extended hours for gift shopping at BUZZ Art, KZN’s festive season superstore – including a launch of exclusively commissioned ceramics by Entoceramics (retro 50’s Afrikaner tableware complete with proteas, bokke, ants and lucky beans).
The Durban Gay and Lesbian Film festival team will provide a cash bar. For more information visit www.toskinacat.org
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