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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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UFS student named as SA Women's Hockey Player

2010-11-08

Lesley-Ann George.

Lesley-Ann George, student and staff member in die Office: Corporative Liaison, Institutional Advancement and Sport at the University of the Free State (UFS), was named by SA Hockey as die South African women’s hockey player of the year. This is the highest recognition that a woman’s hockey player can receive in South Africa.

Lesley-Ann, the Vice-Captain of the Protea team, has this year already represented South Africa in, amongst others, the World Cup Tournament in Argentina en the Commonwealth Games in New-Delhi, India. At the latter meeting the Protea team came fourth.

We are absolutely delighted about Lesley-Ann’s se performance,” said Mr Frans van der Watt from KovsieSport at the UFS. He was also happy that the UFS could play a part in Lesley-Ann’s entry into international hockey. Lesley-Ann is the captain of the UFS women’s hockey team.

“It is an incredible privilege. Many of the other players also deserve this honour, because they have a good season behind them,” said Lesley-Ann.

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