Portrait Party: Queer Edition | 25 June

Join our portrait party!

In celebration of International Pride Month, we're hosting an extra special queer edition of our Portrait Party! We’re inviting all members of the LGBTQI+ community to join us for an evening of making, meaning-making, and making merry. No experience is necessary — you’ll be guided through a series of portrait-making activities, from fast-paced rounds to slower drawing sessions, all accompanied by thoughtful conversation menus.

What to expect

TED Talk

A thought-provoking and playful talk on the experience of growing up and being different.

Speed starters

Think speed dating — but instead of collecting potential suitors, you’re collecting cute portraits.

Conversation course

Pair up with fellow attendees for a slower-paced session of drawing, painting, or working in the medium of your choice.

Paper presents

Make a portrait to take home and gift to someone you love.

All basic materials are provided, but you're welcome to bring your favourite tools to work with — pencils, crayons, pastels, watercolours, or whatever inspires you. From seasoned makers to those who haven’t picked up a crayon since school, everyone is welcome.

What is a Portrait Party?

It’s a guided arts and crafts gathering where you’ll make portraits — pictures of faces — with fun being the whole point, rather than perfection or finished products.

The Portrait Party is guided by Andie Reeves, a teacher, textile artist, and founder of Cape Town Craft Club, and David Backwell, a medical doctor, cognitive enthusiast, and writer behind The Mental Spectacle

Come hungry

We'll be partying in the Bree Street Community Hall, found at the back of Clarke's. Attendees are welcome to order food and drinks from Clarke's all night long.

Make with mates

Bring a friend or two to spend time together in a new and fun way.

Or come solo

The Portrait Party is a friendly, welcoming space and a great way to meet new people. Don’t be shy about coming alone.

What to bring

All basic materials will be provided; however, attendees are encouraged to bring their favourite medium to work with — pencils, crayons, pastels, watercolours, etc.

Donations

Proceeds from the Portrait Party will be donated to The Pride Shelter Trust, Africa's first formal haven that provides short-term accommodation to the LGBTQI+ minority groups during crisis periods. If you would like to add an additional donation at checkout or on the night, you're welcome to! The tiers are as follows:

R100 covers 1 person for 3 months, including accommodation

R300 covers 1 person for 3 months, including accommodation and toiletry kits

R500 covers 1 person for 3 months, including accommodation, toiletry kits and meals

If you have any special needs or requirements, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

See you at the party!