The business of art

Last edited: August 20, 2012

Posted by Business and Arts South Africa

BUSINESS and Arts South Africa (Basa) has announced the finalists for the 15th Annual Business Day Basa Awards, supported by Anglo American, which pay tribute to those businesses who are actively supporting arts and culture events nationwide.

This year, which celebrates the 15th year of the awards, saw an increase in entries, particularly in the categories Sustainable Partnerships and Youth Development. Among the businesses who have been recognised as finalists are large corporates Sasol, KWV, Old Mutual, De Beers and Santam, while smaller businesses include HR Consultancy Pinpoint one and the Beacon Isle Resort.

"We are delighted at the depth and scope of this year's nominations which demonstrate how the arts continue to offer great opportunities to strategically - align brands, says Basa CEO Michelle Constant. Nominations were made in 12 categories and the Art Champion and Chairman's Premier Award will be presented at a gala ceremony in Joburg on August 27.

Some of the categories include First Time Sponsor, Innovation, Mentor of the Year and Increasing Access to the Arts. The judges are CEO of The Loerie Awards Dr Andrew Human (chairman); media consultant and editor of Destiny Man Kojo Baffoe; Sunday Independent arts critic Mary Corrigan; independent arts consultant Nicky du Plessis; CEO of the Mastrantonio Group Giovanni Mariano; co-founder and coowner of multi-disciplinary design firm INK Lisebo Mokhesi and Associate Professor at the University of Cape Town and Artistic Director of Siwela Sonke Jay Pather.

For more information, call the Basa offices on 011-447-2295, e-mail infoUbasa.co.za or go to the website at www.basa.co.za.