The Bag Factory, more formally known as the Fordsburg Artists’ Studios, is a non-profit organisation established in 1991 to initially provide studio space for visual artists. Since its inception the Bag Factory has developed further programmes that on a broader level support, develop and promote the visual arts in South Africa. These include an local and international visiting artists programme, a professional and creative skills development programme and an audience development programme.

The building, located strategically in Newtown/Fordsburg, near the Oriental Plaza, contains 18 studios, as well as workshop and exhibition spaces. The studios are filled with full time practicing visual artists and is a dedicated visual arts space. Visitors are able to meet and speak to artists about their work while purchasing or commissioning work from the artist directly.

Over the years, it has focused on developing a programme that stands for inclusion and diversity, built on an idea of open access, particularly to individual constituents and community groups who had been historically excluded from mainstream education and creative resources.

Monday to Friday || 9am to 5pm
Keep your eyes open for special events, openings and open studio days by signing up to our mailing list http://www.bagfactoryart.org.za/contact/