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11 August 2021 | Story Dr Cindé Greyling | Photo Supplied
Art lover Prof Janine Allen-Spies

Prof Janine Allen-Spies is an artist, lecturer in Fine Arts, and image philosopher from the UFS Department of Fine Arts. She teaches painting, drawing, and conceptual art to pre-graduate students and supervises postgraduate students in Fine Arts and other creative practices. In 2020, she was awarded the Stals Prize for her valuable role as a visual artist, academic, mentor, lecturer, activist, and supporter of art. 

What is the best thing about your job?
Working with artists and students who are energetic and passionate and love talking about art. 

What is the best and worst decision you have ever made?
As a second-year Art student, I modelled a psychedelic-looking bikini at a vintage clothing fashion show. Still makes me cringe! The best decisions weren’t really mine – they were godly interventions, so I can't claim them.

What was/is the biggest challenge of your career?
The biggest challenge is to make art. Even in the best circumstances, artmaking is ecstasy and agony. My biggest challenge as a mom is that I have two teenagers at home – working with students doesn't mean you know anything about younger teenagers.

What does the word woman mean to you?
As one of six sisters, I learnt that ‘woman’ implies diversity. We are all entirely different. Luckily, I don't have any preconceived ideas; all people should strive to be full-bodied human beings.

Which woman inspires you, and why?
Hypatia of Alexandria, Emily Hobhouse, Frida Kahlo, Princess Diana, and Caster Semenya – all women who do not fit into any mould. I am also inspired by my friends and my sisters and a lot of other local women.

What advice would you give to the 15-year-old you?
Make more of an effort to not grow up! Enjoy the beach, because one day you will not live close by. Your body is your own to take responsibility for and to love. Be strict with boyfriends and learn how and when to end a relationship, because nobody teaches you that.

What is the one self-care thing that you do? 
At the moment, the selfcare thing is visiting Nick, the hairdresser of Bella Donna who can fix, colour, and cut my hair, because managing my hair myself is just impossible.

What makes you a woman of quality, impact, and care?
I try to be self-reflective. To forgive and to be accepting are very important; we all have our fault lines, and we should work with each other's shortcomings. 
 
I cannot live without … coffee and ‘my’ psychologist.
My secret weapon is … honesty, and if my honesty fails, it will be having a Plan B.
I always have … fashion clothing items, even if I must make or alter clothing myself. My grandmother was a seamstress and we learnt to love clothing design.
I will never … again take the Free State landscape for granted.
I hope … poverty in the country will be addressed aggressively and in a more directed manner – which 
includes active participation and engagement of all people in South Africa.

News Archive

Exciting Science School of Excellence for Grade 11 learners presented
2009-05-21

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS) is presenting a Science School of Excellence for top achievers in Grade 11 from 6-9 July 2009. This will take place on the Main Campus in Bloemfontein.

Four exciting days are planned during which Grade 11 learners will participate in challenging extra-curricular exercises as well as laboratory and research activities. All classes will be presented in English and Afrikaans.

A maximum of 80 learners can be accommodated and selection will take place on the basis of first come, first accepted. An application fee of R50,00 per learner is payable.

The closing date for applications is 29 May 2009. The successful candidate will be notified telephonically. A further registration fee of R200,00 is payable by the successful learners. Learners are responsible for their own transport and accommodation. The registration fee includes all meals, lectures and activities.

In order to qualify for the UFS Science School, learners had to achieve an average of 80% [level 7] during the 2008 Grade 10 final examinations. They also had to obtain a minimum of 80% [level 7] in Mathematics and Physical or Life Sciences during the same examination. Learners who are interested in the Department of Computer Sciences and Informatics will also need Grade 10 CAT at level 7. A certified copy of the learner’s school report must accompany the application form.

“Our vision is to make the Faculty the preferred choice in central South-Africa for those who wish to pursue their studies in the natural and agricultural sciences,” said Prof. Neil Heideman, Vice-Dean of the faculty.

For application forms and enquiries, please contact the coordinator, Mr Johan Kruger, at 051 401 3199.

Media Release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za  
20 May 2009

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