The Bank’s support for the Little Artist Project lauded at the 12th Annual Business Day BASA Awards

Deutsche Bank Africa Foundation has been a key supporter of the Little Artists Programme since 2004. The art programme involves taking youth from troubled and previously disadvantaged backgrounds and teaching them the basics of art. Over time, some students have gone on to become well known artists, and some have gone back to teaching art on the programme. The outcome of the programme is that young people, many who are orphaned, have found meaning and expression in participating in the programme

An exhibit of The Little Artists’ art at the Deutsche Bank Casalinga Capers Day brought much interest and sales benefiting the Little Artists programme.

Deutsche Bank’s support for the Little Artist Project in South Africa was recognised the 12th Business Arts South Africa Awards under the category Long-Term Development of the Arts. The awards, which were presented by South Africa’s Minister of Arts and Culture Lulu Xingwana on August 31st at the Turbine Hall in Newtown, are considered South Africa’s most prestigious business-arts awards. “Our business at Business and Arts South Africa is connecting diverse business and art projects and highlighting the value for all”, said Business and Arts South Africa CEO, Michelle Constant.

In 2007, Deutsche Bank facilitated the artists finding a more permanent home in the Barnato Park High School in Hillbrow. This has enabled them to have a more stable location, where the facilities are condusive to creativity and also the required discipline to produce works of art.

Two years ago, 7 artists who had achieved excellence in their work, and had won various competitions, were sent to London on an art appreciation trip. In addition, their art was auctioned on the Deutsche Bank intranet to staff keen to support the programme and acquire various art pieces.

The Artists also participated in the Deutsche Bank Casalinga Capers day where their work was put on exhibition. Clients were most impressed with their work, and a number of paintings were sold, allowing some artists to receive income which is used to further their education.