Tackling arts business from Mr MediaX point of view

Since the dark days of explicit discrimination against African people under the Apartheid regime in South Africa, a number of Artists resorted to Arts as a form of protest and demonstration of political consciousness.

The likes of Mbongeni Ngema, Gibson Kente and Mam’ Miriam Makeba were at the forefront of this Natives’ creative agenda back in the time.

Fast-forward to this day and age, a few things may have changed yet a lot still remains the same.

Eshowe-based New Media Artist, Cebo Simphiwe Xulu, professionally know as Mr. MediaX, feels that the Arts and creativity should come from a place of inner desire to express one’s day-to-day realities.

For him, this kind of approach to his work often evokes mixed emotions which he finds to be both funny and sad at the same time.

In an exclusive interview with Vulankungu, the University of KwaZulu-Natal art school alumnus argues that Art in this country is a gift and a curse because as professionals, they are struggling to monetize their ideas and live off Art like normal functional members of society.

“Most of us struggle with the basics of managing money. And it’s hard because vele our minds are in 10 different places at once… because we love bringing ideas to life.

“So, our mismanagement of financial affairs usually creates the biggest burden for our families. I don’t know if I have the answer to this problem but I’m here trying to find better solutions in the only way I know how,” he says.

Mr MediaX suggests that Artists themselves should take more responsibility for creating a healthy arts economy because at this stage the industry is filled with elitism and classism.

On the issue of government intervention, he believes that there is an effort being done to assist.

“They’re not passive observers in the matter. But the government is trying to help everyone, everywhere, all at once,” he stated.

His perspective of the Arts sector from a global viewpoint is that the economies with a strong financial muscle can always afford to grow their industries a lot more than the struggling or third-world countries.

“I am a big advocate of STEAM – which is the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics.

“We would be here all day if I get into this. But the industry is functioning only as well as our economy is. If you also believe that Art mirrors reality, that should give you my answer,” he explained.

As much as the going gets tough, Mr. MediaX credits his supportive friends, colleagues and family for being his greatest source of courage to keep trying, while putting out the best work he can with whatever limited resources at his disposal.

“It is a highlight that my family tries to be as supportive as they can be. I feel their support even though they may not understand me and my failures a lot of the time – they still let me be me.

“I have a good circle of friends and some patrons who try to support me however they can. I can still laugh fully today. Life is hard but I still can access love, joy and happiness in this weird career path I have chosen. That is a highlight and the ultimate flex for me,” he says.