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Ibrahim Mahama engages with future artists during UFS visit

14 May 2024 | Story ANTHONY MTHEMBU | Photo Supplied

Ghanaian contemporary artist, Ibrahim Mahama, visited the Department of Fine Arts at the University of the Free State (UFS) to share insights with staff and students during his stay in the country.

Dr Adelheid Von Maltitz, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Fine Arts at the UFS, highlighted the significance of Mahama’s visit which took place from 21 to 28 March 2024, marking the first instance of such interaction between a Fine Arts department in South Africa and Mahama. She remarked, “It is truly astounding that a person of his calibre dedicated time to focus on our department, and I believe this has catalysed a positive shift within our department.”

Mahama’s impactful presence at UFS

Dr Von Maltitz emphasised that Mahama’s visit aimed to offer staff and students a glimpse into his artistic process and mindset. During his time at the UFS, Mahama, who was virtually overseeing his latest recent large-scale artwork titled Purple Hibiscus, which involved wrapping the Barbican Centre in London, engaged extensively with staff and students from the department about their research. He shared insights into his creative journey, presented select works, and conducted critique sessions with fourth year and postgraduate students, among other activities. Dr Von Maltitz believes this interaction, particularly with students, has significantly bolstered their confidence as aspiring artists, preparing them for professional endeavours.

Broader implications and future prospects

Mahama’s visit not only energised the department’s academic environment but also holds broader implications. Dr Von Maltitz asserted that it will solidify the department’s identity nationally and create avenues for students to pursue residencies in countries like Ghana. Therefore, maintaining a fruitful relationship with Mahama remains a priority for the department.

Reflecting on the visit Dr Von Maltitz concluded, ‘’the key takeaway, especially for the students, was witnessing the potential of their works within the broader South African and international contexts. “

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Research development develops young researchers

2008-11-19

Researchers who attended the workshop are, from the left, front: Ms Florence Tladi, Department of Psychology, Ms Makoena Moloi, Department of Plant Sciences, Ms Tobeka Mehlomakhulu, Department of Geography, Ms Nomampondomise Molefe, Department of Chemistry, Dr Micheal van Wyk, Department of Curriculum Studies, Prof. Mabokang ‘Monnapula-Mapesela, CHESD; back: Dr Sebolai, Prof. Muriel Meiring, Department of Hematology and Cell Biology, Mr Mathabatha Maleka, Department of Genetics, Mr Coleman, Dr Gregory Alexander, Department of Psychology of Education, Ms Dorine Masiangoako, Department of Chemistry, and Ms Moipone Mokoena, Department of Chemistry.

Dr Olihile Sebolai, Directorate Research Development, recently organised a series of workshops which is aimed at imparting new skills and knowledge to young and emerging academics.

The directorate endeavored to capacitate the new generation of researchers at the university with skills enable them to be established within the competitive mainstream of research. This is in line with the research strategy of the university that seeks to cultivate a strong culture of research.

Amongst others the workshops focused on innovative ways of adding value to student supervision and improving research project management skills. These workshops were facilitated by Dr Pieter du Toit from the University of Pretoria and Mr William Coleman from the Central University of Technology. Follow up sessions are planned for 2009 to assess the impact of these workshops.

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