Contemporary art refers to the art produced today, encompassing various forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, installation, performance, and video art.

Emerging in the late 20th century and continuing into the 21st, contemporary art mirrors a world shaped by global influences, cultural diversity, and rapid technological advancements. It encompasses a dynamic fusion of materials, techniques, and concepts and plays a vital role in broader cultural conversations around identity, social justice, environmental issues, pop culture, capitalism, and national identity.

Throughout history, art has been invaluable for its ability to question, provoke thought, and help us make sense of a complex world. Our Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Art builds on this legacy, integrating cutting-edge artistic and curatorial practices with established techniques and historical theories.

Through mentorship from accomplished artists, writers, curators, and researchers, students are guided to unlock their own authentic artistic philosophy and practice. This program is designed for individuals who see the world from a unique perspective, are unafraid to ask bold questions, and are willing to explore beyond the boundaries of conventional art.

Art, in all its forms, has been central to developing global culture and enriching personal meaning. As the world increasingly looks to Africa as a prolific arena for creative expression and innovation, the art world is experiencing an explosion of both commercial and conceptual opportunities. This program is positioned at the intersection of these opportunities, providing students with the skills to navigate and contribute to this evolving global art landscape.

Career opportunities

With a degree in Contemporary Art, you can become a sought-after specialist in one or more of the following areas:

• Practising artist
• Curator/ art dealer/ art consultant
• Gallerist/ art sales representative/ gallery manager
• Auctioneer/ art appraiser/ conservator
• Art critic/writer
• Art director
• Illustrator/ designer
• Arts administrator/ community arts coordinator
• Photographer
• Studio manager
• Artist’s assistant
• Art educator
• Academic
• Art historian
• Creative advisor
• Film industry
• Stylist

What do our Contemporary Art students say

“The Creative Academy provides a safe, supportive and innovative environment. I was allowed to unapologetically be myself and for this I am grateful.”

“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.”

“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.”

“The epitome of a liberal arts college”

“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.”

Julia Rosa Clark / Programme Coordinator: Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Art

Julia Rosa Clark is the coordinator and curriculum developer of the Contemporary Art Degree programme at Creative Academy. She has practised and exhibited as an artist, designer and curator. Her personal artistic practice critiques contemporary cultural consumption, value and the fallout of late capitalism via explorations of found objects, collage, sculpture and installation. She has worked for many years as a teacher and lecturer in various disciplines, including Painting, Art History & Discourse, Printmaking, Curatorial Practice, Graphic Design, Drawing and general practice on multiple educational levels from primary to masters, and at a number of institutions.

Rowan Smith / Lecturer: Contemporary Art

Rowan Smith is a practising artist and educator. His work takes the form of a multidisciplinary semiotic investigation into the ways in which cultural signs and signifiers can be read as artefacts. He examines how the meaning embedded in these artefacts fluctuates (and frequently deteriorates) in relation to ever-shifting sociopolitical contexts, often assuming a self-critical position which responds to his locality. As an educator Rowan has been teaching at tertiary institutions throughout Cape Town since 2014, often focusing on sculptural practices as well as the location of meaning in the production and interpretation of artworks.

Renowned artists and curators regularly engage with our students through guest lecture sessions

Ed Young
Marc Barben
Khanya Mashabela
Mitchell Messina
James Webb
Chris Van Eeden
Inga Somdyala
Under Projects (Luca Evans, Guy Simpson & Brett Charles Seiler)
Keely Shinners
Georgina Gratrix
Lauren Theunissen
Zander Blom
Dom Chemanais
Mawande Ka Zenzile
Maja Marx
Gehard Marx
Tom Cullberg
Emma van der Merwe (Director and Head Curator)

In 2024, 25% of our graduates have had solo exhibitions/ projects across Cape Town art spaces!

Solo Exhibitions/Projects by alumni:

• Guy Simpson – Solo Exhibition – A4 Arts Foundation; THK (2023) & Everard Read (2024)
• Nazeer Jappie – 99 on Loop
• Gene Lesouw (Eugene Lombard) – 99 on Loop
• Luca Evans – Everard Read
• Hanna Noor Mahomed – A4 Arts Foundation; Whatiftheworld Gallery
• Lexi Hide – Everard Read (cubicle series)
• Matthew Michael – Everard Read (cubicle series)
• Vusumzi Nkomo – Ava Gallery; THK Gallery
• Sara Matthews – solo projects at Demo
• Lianca Heemro (2022) AVA
• Jayshal Gajjar – DAOR Contemporary (group shows)