BLVCK BLOCK is a dynamic arts organisation committed to nurturing emerging talent and fostering creative growth in the arts sector. Through its three core programmes—Artist Residency Programme, Exhibition Programme, and Outreach Programme with the UKhamba Pottery Cooperative in Mpumalanga—the organisation seeks to empower underrepresented Black artists, facilitate their professional development, and provide crucial market opportunities.
A REVOLUTION SUSPENDED
A solo exhibition by Baha Suleiman
1 February - 22 February 2025
In A Revolution Suspended, Suleiman examines the post-democratic landscape of South Africa, focusing on themes like water, land, and the universal quest for belonging—parallels he draws with his Palestinian heritage and Jordanian context. His work delves into how access to resources transcends economic concerns, becoming deeply tied to identity. As a descendant of exiled refugees, Suleiman's art reflects a longing for homeland, finding resonance in South Africa's struggles with dispossession and identity, where historical injustices echo those of Palestinians, underscoring a shared experience of loss and accountability.
Artist Residency Programme
The BLVCK BLOCK Artist Residency Programme supports young, Black, and emerging artists in their creative journeys. This programme offers artists an immersive environment to develop their skills, expand their practice, and refine their portfolios. In addition to access to studio space and resources, the residency connects artists with industry professionals, mentors, and market opportunities, enabling them to showcase their work and build sustainable careers in the arts.
Exhibition programme
Through its Exhibition Programme, BLVCK BLOCK curates and organises exhibitions featuring the artists' work in the residency. This program provides a platform for young and emerging Black artists to present their creations to a broader audience, enhancing their visibility within the local and international art scenes. The exhibitions foster dialogues around contemporary art, culture, and identity while facilitating the artists' networking and sales opportunities.
Outreach Programme
In collaboration with the UKhamba Pottery Cooperative in Mpumalanga, BLVCK BLOCK's Outreach Programme empowers women in the region by strengthening the cooperative's operations. The programme aims to enhance the skills and business acumen of the women involved in pottery production, ensuring the cooperative runs efficiently and sustainably. By providing training, resources, and support, the initiative helps to create economic opportunities for the women and ensures that their craftsmanship is recognised and celebrated in the broader market.