Art Aid
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Frequently Asked Questions

The Essential Guide to Your Questions

Answers That Matter

Whether you’re a funder, collaborator, customer, or community member — here’s everything you need to know (and a few things you didn’t).

You’ve got questions? We’ve got answers

The honest, unfiltered kind. Whether you’re a curious creative, potential partner, or just someone who stumbled here from Instagram at 2am, here’s what you probably want to know.

General Information

What is Art Aid?

We’re a Joburg-based cultural incubator transforming Indigenous Knowledge Systems into contemporary creative industries.

Who do you work with?

We collaborate with rural artisans, urban designers, youth mentors, cultural curators, and social impact orgs. Basically: the full creative ecosystem.

For Artists & Makers

Can I join as an artist?

Our network is curated through long-term programs and community relationships — but if you’ve got something special, let’s chat.

Do you provide materials or just mentorship?

Both. Depending on the program, we supply design tools, raw materials, and training support.

For Funders & Partners

Can I donate or support?

Yes! Visit our Contact page or send us an email to info@artaid.africa.

Can we co-fund a project?

Absolutely. We co-design with funders who align with our mission and values. Let’s build something meaningful together.

Do you have audited financials or impact reports?

Yes. Reach out to info@artaid.africa and we’ll share our latest pack.

Where does the money go?

Straight into programs, materials, mentorship, and paying our artists fairly. Always.

Partnership & Sales

Do you do commissions or custom pieces?

Absolutely. From custom homeware to curated cultural experiences — if it’s rooted in heritage and ready to shine, we’re down.

How can I stock your products?

Head to our Retail page or email us at info@artaid.africa for wholesale info.

Programs & Services

Can I apply to be part of a program?

We work by invitation or through community partners, but drop us a line — we’d love to hear about your work.

Do you offer training?

Yes! Our programs include design mentorship, enterprise strategy, and co-creation labs — tailored to each community’s context.

Shipping & Orders

Do you sell directly to the public?

Yes — through selected pop-ups, gallery shops, and seasonal online drops. Watch our social accounts for drop dates.

I met John Anthony Boerma and Jan Bhuda of Art Aid in 2023 for a product development program that was in partnership with Constitution Hill. My journey with them has been ...

Lebohang Tsinyane

The Modern Us

I met John Anthony Boerma and Jan Bhuda of Art Aid in 2023 for a product development program that was in partnership with Constitution Hill. My journey with them has been nothing but an amazing adventure for a creative who is passionate about what they do. I wish that every passionate and determined creative that wants to grow their product and business could be granted an opportunity to be part of the Art Aid community.

Lebohang Tsinyane

The Modern Us

Through initiatives such as the Innibos National Craft Awards, curated beautifully and professionally by Art Aid, traditional craft is elevated and redefined. Through this project, Artisans...

Sandra Jacobs

Innibos

Through initiatives such as the Innibos National Craft Awards, curated beautifully and professionally by Art Aid, traditional craft is elevated and redefined. Through this project, Artisans are empowered to create sustainable livelihoods from their craft.

Sandra Jacobs

Innibos

Erica Elk, CEO

Craft and Design Institute Group of Companies

CDI has a long-standing relationship with Art Aid who have worked with us in delivering our training interventions in several provinces; delivered skilfully and professionally and with great passion! Art Aid have an excellent network in the craft and design sector; years of experience in product and business development, knowledge transfer and building the capacity of creative people.

Erica Elk, CEO

Craft and Design Institute Group of Companies

Justine Watterson, Director

Imbali

Imbali has had the pleasure of working with Art Aid for over 15 years, across a wide range of initiatives including teacher training, craft skills development, enterprise support, and product development. The Art Aid team brings deep sector insight, professionalism, and a passionate commitment to the creative industries in South Africa, working effectively in both urban and rural contexts. They have a rare ability to meet creative entrepreneurs and crafters where they are, helping elevate their work with care, skill, and vision. Their support is both inspiring and practical, combining design innovation with strong business and organisational acumen. Art Aid adds exceptional value to programmes focused on creative enterprise and product development.

Justine Watterson, Director

Imbali

The MTN SA Foundation acknowledges Art Aid for its capacity building initiatives that empower arts educators in the fields of art and culture. Their dedication to enhancing skills and knowledge ...

Niel Nortje

MTN South Africa Foundation Npc

The MTN SA Foundation acknowledges Art Aid for its capacity building initiatives that empower arts educators in the fields of art and culture. Their dedication to enhancing skills and knowledge ensures educators are better equipped to nurture creativity and cultural appreciation among learners. Through this commitment, Art Aid is strengthening the foundation of arts education and enriching the cultural landscape for future generations.

Niel Nortje

MTN South Africa Foundation Npc

Helped me refine my ideas into practical processes reflected in my paintings, steadily nurturing my business for growth - while supporting me in professionalizing my practice, and forming meaningful connections ...

Tebogo Motshabi

Hood Snob

Tebogo Motshabi

Hood Snob

The dedication to developing professional practice, design, and marketing skills through their exceptional product development programs ensures that products are unique and market-ready. The ongoing support of creative communities, both ...

Maureen Waldeck

Tourvest Destination Retail

Maureen Waldeck

Tourvest Destination Retail

As a programme lead for creative regeneration initiatives in joburg city, I see ART AID’s impact daily. They innovate in product development and design while empowering young entrepreneurs...

Dawn Robertson

Jozi My Jozi

As a programme lead for creative regeneration initiatives in joburg city , I see ART AID’s impact daily. They innovate in product development and design while empowering young entrepreneurs. Their work inspires growth and fresh ideas. ART AID is a key partner in building creative, sustainable communities.

Dawn Robertson

Jozi My Jozi

The Essential Guide to Your Questions

Where Indigenous Wisdom Fuels Creative Futures

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