The Provincial Film Office has recently facilitated the establishment of a structure that will create a platform for film makers to look at solutions for developmental issues across the province.
The Provincial Film Office has recently facilitated the establishment of a structure that will create a platform for film makers to look at solutions for developmental issues across the province.
Provincial Film Office Manager, Vuyisile Zukelwa says that the structure aims to provide film makers with a voice as they feel that their views are not adequately addressed by the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC).
The Eastern Cape Film Association (ECFA) was established during a recent workshop attended by Local Economic Development (LED) units from district municipalities, DSRAC district officials and film-makers from the different districts.
The workshop report spoke of tense discussions where all were “dissatisfied with the way film-makers were treated by DSRAC as they realised that the film office budget would not be able deliver on the promises put forward.”
The manager of performing arts for the provincial DSRAC, Mandisa Nguza, agrees that there has not been enough support given to film makers in the province.
However, this year there has been a small amount of funding allocated to the Eastern Cape Provincial Arts and Culture Council (ECPACC) where film-makers can apply for funding through the ECPACC.
Nguza said there is a policy in place which supports this structure and will benefit the province as it is a rural area full of talented people.
The ECPACC is a statutory ‘arms length’ body that is appointed to advise on policy and support arts and culture in the province.
