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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

Social entrepreneurship important to eradicate poverty

2012-03-30

Here are Rhoda Kadalie and Mark Lotter at the Business School
Photo: Stephen Collett
30 March 2012

Renowned South African human activist and popular columnist Rhoda Kadalie recently visited the Business School to lecture on social entrepreneurship.

Ms Kadalie has been the Executive Director of Impumelelo since 1999. This organisation rewards innovative government and civil society initiatives that improve social service delivery in the eradication of poverty in South Africa.

She was accompanied by Mr Mark Lotter, Fundraiser and Marketing Manager of Impumelelo. Mr Lotter did a presentation on ground-breaking achievements using best-practice South African case studies, e.g. the Mariannhill Landfill Conservancy, Phelophepa Health Train and mothers2mothers.

They elaborated on the principles underlying the work and contributions of Impumelelo to the future well-being of the nation. It was clear from the lecture and the discussions that followed by MBAs, under- and postgraduate students from different faculties, as well as members of the university community, that the debate on social entrepreneurship is highly relevant, much needed and very important.

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