The Market Photo Workshop was founded by the world-renowned photographer David Goldblatt in 1989 and to this day plays a key role in the training of South African photographers.
At the outset, the aim was to provide visual literacy and practical training to young photographers who were excluded from formal training in tertiary education institutions by the Apartheid policies. Photography as a social and political practice was an important strategy in documenting the socio-political South African landscape during this time. Today, the Market Photo Workshop offers courses and seminars in photography, educating learners in all technical and practical aspects of the medium as well as initiating multi-layered projects and interactions, e.g. on topics such as women’s rights and cultural heritage. Furthermore, a number of fellowships, mentorships and internship opportunities assist students and alumni in creating their careers. Well-known alumni include Jodi Bieber, Sydney Seshibedi, Nontsikelelo Veleko and Zanele Muholi. As an addition to the training functions of the Market Photo Workshop, in 2005 the Photo Workshop Gallery was launched, exhibiting the work of students as well as established local and international photographers.
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