JB Marks Municipality Launches Creative Database to Showcase Local Talent
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
The JB Marks Local Municipality’s Department of Sport, Arts & Culture has officially opened submissions for its inaugural Creative Database, inviting artists, writers, cultural groups and organisations across the region to share their work. With the aim of connecting, promoting and celebrating the area’s vibrant creative community, the database offers a platform for visibility, networking and opportunities for local creatives.
Call for Submissions
The Creative Database is open to:
Visual Arts: Painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, photography, film/video, architecture, graphic and fashion design, crafts, digital art and gastronomy.
Performing Arts: Vocal and instrumental music (all genres), dance, theatre (plays, musicals), opera, mime, circus arts, stand-up comedy and performance art.
Literary Arts: Literature, creative writing and storytelling.
Cultural Groups & Organisations
Deadline: 15 August 2025 at 16h00.
Why Submit?
Elevate Your Profile and Get Discovered
By joining the JB Marks Creative Database, you place your work directly under the eyes of interior galleries, noted publishers and event organisers who are constantly searching for fresh talent. This isn’t just a static directory, think of it as an open invitation for curators, editors and cultural programmers to explore and experience your art or writing. Whether you’re an emerging painter hoping to land your first solo show, a ceramicist seeking commission opportunities, or a storyteller aiming to be featured in an anthology, inclusion in the database means your name and portfolio will stand out in a crowded marketplace of creativity.
Forge Meaningful Connections
Artistic growth rarely happens in isolation. Once your profile is live, you’ll be able to connect directly with fellow creatives across disciplines, from graphic designers and filmmakers to choreographers and theatre-makers. These new connections can spark collaborations on cross-disciplinary projects, co-hosted events or community workshops. Past participants have formed writing groups, co-produced gallery installations and even launched joint ventures simply by reaching out through the network. By submitting, you gain access to a community of peers who share your passion and can help you push your practice in exciting new directions.
Unlock Exclusive Opportunities
Members of the database enjoy priority notification of forthcoming local art shows, writing contests, theatre call-outs and fellowship grants. Imagine receiving a first look at an open call for a music festival’s headline act, or an insider alert about a regional sculpture grant, before the general public. By staying plugged in, you’ll never miss a deadline for competitions, commissions or community-funded projects. This early access can be a game-changer: it gives you extra time to prepare proposals, refine your application materials and ensure your submission stands out amid the rush.
Champion Our Creative Community
Your participation helps to shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of creative talent within JB Marks. Each new profile adds to a collective showcase that highlights the municipality as a vibrant hub of artistic expression. This growing catalogue of artists and organisations not only attracts visitors, tourists and cultural investors but also builds local pride, demonstrating that our region nurtures innovation in every medium. By lending your voice and vision to the database, you play an active role in strengthening the cultural infrastructure that benefits all creatives, from grassroots grassroots collectives to established institutions.
Together, these benefits make submitting to the JB Marks Creative Database a powerful way to amplify your work, cultivate relationships and deepen the impact of the arts in our community.
How to Submit
Online Submission: Download the form at www.jbmarks.co.za, complete your details and email it to itumelengn@jbmarks.gov.za or tebogomo@jbmarks.gov.za.
Hand Submission: Collect a form from your nearest library, fill in your details and drop it off at the same location.
For enquiries, contact Itumeleng at itumelengn@jbmarks.gov.za or tebogomo@jbmarks.gov.za, or call 018 299 5523/5057.
Final stroke of the pen.
By creating this comprehensive database, JB Marks Municipality aims to foster collaboration, drive cultural growth and place Potchefstroom’s creative scene on a stronger footing. Local creatives are encouraged to seize this opportunity to elevate their profile and contribute to a dynamic community showcase.
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