The awards recognise journalism that sparks and shapes conversations around the arts. Says National Arts Festival CEO, Tony Lankester, “Insightful, critical commentary and intelligent review are essential to the sustainability of the arts and assists us in keeping artists in the spotlight and relevant to both their craft and audiences.”
Apart from the prestige and industry regard that the awards engender, the overall winner of the Arts Journalism Awards 2016 and the gold award winners will receive a cash prize. “At a time when arts journalism is under pressure in traditional media and emerging as a force on new media platforms, the recognition given by this award is more important than ever,” says BASA CEO, Michelle Constant.
“Too often arts journalism is dismissed as lightweight, but the calibre of previous finalists and winners and the continued support of the National Arts Festival provide a convincing case for the importance of arts writing in our broader society.”
A judging panel of seasoned media and arts role-players will be convened by CapeTalk radio presenter (and theatre aficionado), John Maytham, who says, “I am excited about getting exposure to the best arts writing in the country. This award is a wonderful opportunity for people who toil long and hard with very little reward to have their work recognised and lauded. The judges look forward to entries that get under the skin; that go beyond cliché; that demonstrate a deep respect for, and understanding of, the exceptional work done by South African artists across the genres.”
Journalists may submit more than one piece of work (to a maximum of four entries) across multiple categories, but each entry must be processed separately. Organisations may enter up to five relevant pieces.
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