The Orange Art Project in Cape Town is running art sessions for foster children in partnership with Home from Home. Practising artists mentor about 120 children across 22 homes in weekly sessions. The nonprofit, founded in 2020, emphasises playful creativity without a formal curriculum.
The Orange Art Project, a Cape Town nonprofit founded during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, facilitates art sessions for children in foster care. Jill Trappler, the founder and chairperson, partners with Home from Home to reach about 120 children in 22 homes in areas such as Observatory, Masiphumelele, Fish Hoek and Ocean View. Thirteen practising artists serve as mentors, responding to the children's interests through playful group activities.
"It’s education of another form in that it’s not outcomes-based," Trappler said. "The artists listen to the children and respond to what they’re wanting to do." The sessions create a safe space for experimentation with various media, fostering friendships rather than formal teaching. Mentors have reported personal growth, with one describing it as an upskilling and employment programme.
Indiego Botha, a mentor since late 2025, runs sessions in Zonnebloem and Observatory, introducing printmaking, tie-dyeing and sewing. "As much as I want to teach them mediums, I also just want to hear what they want to learn," she said. Florida Banisi, a foster mother in Delft, noted the sessions provide fun and skills, with gallery visits inspiring career interests in art.
The project has organised outings to sites including the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa and Kirstenbosch. Children can sell their works online, receiving 60% of proceeds. From 2 to 29 April, an exhibition of Judy Conway's works at Spin Street Gallery will support the organisation, with Conway, a former board member, backing its role in addressing learning diversity.
