Cortyard Screening
with Thati Pele, Palesa Shongwe & Nisha Merit
Johannesburg
Courtyard Screening is a space for art, intimate gatherings, and a shared appreciation of the moving image. Stories have always traveled—across geographies, time, and space—helping us make sense of the unknown, our desires, griefs, and joys, offering glimpses into ourselves and others. Bringing together South African and international productions, Courtyard Screening serves as a platform for cinematic exchange and connection.
From independent feature films and short films to digital art productions, Courtyard Screening curates a rich and engaging program that invites audiences on a visual journey. More than just a screening, it fosters community through live artist talks and director Q&As, encouraging dialogue and participation.
A female-led initiative, Courtyard Screening champions alternative platforms for film and art presentation while highlighting a creative community built on inclusion, exchange, and diversity. Set in an intimate outdoor courtyard, the space offers a welcoming environment for good films, meaningful conversations, and shared meals.
Founded and curated by filmmaker Thati Pele, filmmaker and scholar Palesa Shongwe, and myself, Courtyard Screening is produced in collaboration with Marea Lewis, owner of Toasted—a space that began as a small eatery and has grown into a vibrant hub for creative exchange.
- Killer of Sheep (Charles Burnett, USA, 1987)
- La Haine (Mathieu Kassovitz, France, 1995)
- Air Conditioner (Fradique, Angola, 2021)
- Africa is the Future (Nicolas Premier, France/Congo) including a live conversation with the artist.
- Run George (Vuyani Makausu, South Africa 2021) including a Q&A with the director
- Old Soul Waiting (Slindile Mthembu, South Africa 2021) including a live performance with the artist
- Hausu (Nobuhiko Obayashi, Japan 1977)