In its most basic sense, the term contemporary art refers to art, namely, painting, sculpture, photography, installation, performance, and video art, produced today.

Contemporary art is the art of today, produced in the second half of the 20th century or in the 21st century. Contemporary artists work in a globally influenced, culturally diverse, and technologically advancing world. Their art is a dynamic combination of materials, methods, concepts.

Contemporary art is part of a cultural dialogue that concerns larger contextual frameworks such as personal and cultural identity, family, community, natural & urban environment, social justice, pop culture, capitalism and nationality.

Our Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Art builds on this tradition by integrating contemporary artistic and curatorial practices within established techniques and theory. Through expert mentoring by established artists, writers, curators and researchers, this programme guides students to unlock their own authentic artistic philosophy and practice. This course is intended for individuals who see the world from their own unique perspective, who aren’t afraid to ask questions and who are brave enough to explore beyond the restrictions of established conventions.

The creation of art, regardless of the format, has been a key component in the creation and perpetual evolution of global culture and enrichment of individual meaning making.

With the world increasingly looking towards Africa as a prolific arena for the development of creative expression and innovative practice, the art world is experiencing an explosion of commercial and conceptual opportunities.

#CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

#What do our students say

“The Contemporary Art course is spectacular in its methods of educating students about all aspects of the art world in an environment that is inclusive, supportive and conscientious.” – Nazeer Jappie, graduate

“The BACA degree is a brilliant course that encourages self-expression, experimentation and critical thinking regardless of your art background/knowledge. I’m always glad I decided to study at CTCA, where I received continuous support and insightful feedback that helped me develop as an artist.”- Tayla van der Spuy, graduate

“The epitome of a liberal arts college” – ANY FKA Justin Fife, graduate

“I found the staff at CTCA to be extremely supportive and invested in their students. I enjoyed my experience and can highly recommend the college to anyone looking for personal growth and a better understanding of the art world.” – an anonymous graduate

#Lecturers

Chris van Eeden is a “very” practising artist and burgeoning part-time educator. He is fascinated by the abstraction and contortion of human relations inherent in the products, signs and debris of antisocial spectacle capitalism. He applies a multidisciplinary approach to production with a conceptual ethos of “the right tool for the right job”. As an educator his interests are situated around activating students’ awareness and deployment of critical strategies of Consumerism and products as viable artistic methods for inquiry and engagement, often by teaching them how to make art out of found things and junk. And also how to get bang-for-buck. He enjoys long walks in the streets and on the beach and considering the signs and portents of pollution and packaging mixed with nature and sea shells.