Introduction

Very Real Time is an ongoing programme of research and contemporary art projects located in South Africa's two major cities, Cape Town and

Johannesburg. The first version of Very Real Time took place in 2003, with a 1-month residency in Cape Town, involving 7 artists from South Africa and abroad.

Described briefly, Very Real Time is an enquiry into the spaces between people in South African cities. The project attempts to take into account the complex historic, social and geographic forces which influence the intimate life of the individual, and to find ways of challenging and overcoming psychological barriers which exist. Through exchange, the project intends to create parallels and comparisons with situations elsewhere in the world.

To engage this intimate and personal dimension, Very Real Time relies largely on process based and non-object based art-making techniques, favouring a performative mode of social engagement and the creation of situations which facilitate the exchange of ideas, insights, amusement, and at times awkward confrontation. The project strives to harness the positive aspects of the urban life as opportunities to slide through hang-ups and mental blocks.

Very Real Time is an initiative co-ordinated by South African artist, Gregg Smith in collaboration with Dorothee Kreutzveldt of the Joubert Park Project in Central Johannesburg. Very Real Time is a member of the RAIN Artists Initiative Network. The project is based at the Point Blank Gallery in the Drill Hall, Johannesburg.