PRESS RELEASE Mzansi Craft Council presents “Craft Futures – Heritage, Innovation & the New South African Maker”

The Mzansi Craft Council (MCC) proudly announces its launch with Craft Futures: Heritage, Innovation & the New South African Maker, opening at Nuru House, 44 Stanley, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on 4–5 December 2025. This milestone event marks the introduction of the MCC National Craft Directory, signalling a new era of visibility, access, and opportunity for South Africa’s craft sector. The two-day programme foregrounds the themes shaping the future of craft: • Day 1: Heritage, governance, and intellectual property • Day 2: Innovation, technology, and market access Through curated walkabouts, panel discussions, and marketplace showcases, MCC positions itself as a definitive leader within the country’s creative economy. Curated with precision, the exhibition elevates clay, beading, grass, and telephone wire practices into a refined gallery experience. Visitors will also experience sector-focused conversations at the Speakers Corner, along with three curatorial zones: • Roots / Imvelaphi – heritage lineages • Convergence / Ukuhlangana – contemporary voices • Futures / Ikusasa – digital innovation and sector transformation A central feature of the event is the unveiling of the MCC National Craft Directory — an inclusive online platform where South African crafters can register, be discovered, and participate meaningfully in the national craft economy. With searchable categories, maker profiles, and multi-language access, the directory will strengthen connections across the craft value chain. Craft Futures: Heritage, Innovation & the New South African Maker is more than an exhibition; it is MCC’s first public statement of purpose — building clarity, trust, and sector-wide leadership. By bridging heritage and innovation, MCC presents a platform for crafters to grow, collaborate, and shape the future of the industry. For media inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact: Cynthia Thusi, Market Access Head — 073 312 6837 · cynthia@mzansicraftcouncil.co.za Roxanne Konco, Secretariat — 074 525 1423 · roxanne@mzansicraftcouncil.co.za Follow MCC: Instagram @mzansi_craft_council | Facebook @MzansiCraftCouncil