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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. “

News Archive

Qwaqwa Campus presents Indigenous Knowledge Symposium

2009-11-16

The Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State recently hosted its second Indigenous Knowledge (IK) Symposium.

The event, organised by Mr Stoffel Kok and Ms Zuki Ketiw from the campus’s Library Management, was a great success with more than 70 persons attending.

There was a potpourri of presentations. Mr Magaiza, from the Department of Sociology started the morning with his presentation “Polar bear in the Sahara”, and set the standard for the morning. He was followed by the Departmental Head, Dr Crause. Other speakers included Mr Hahanke from the Department of Arts, Culture and Sports and the Qwaqwa Campus Head Dr Elias Malete. Two lecturers from the National University of Lesotho (NUL) also gave presentations. Ms Lechasa from the NUL gave a talk on the orality of the Basotho and Mr Mosaase, also from the NUL, followed her with a related talk on the Basotho’s indigenous craft. Some indigenous dancing items were also provided by learners from the Mpetha Secondary School.
Photo: Supplied

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