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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

UFS Department of Psychology of Education joins hands with government

2007-09-22

The Department of Psychology of Education at the University of the Free State (UFS) has joined hands with the Free State Department of Education's Sub-Directorate: Inclusive Education with a view to developing a revised qualification, namely the Advanced Certificate in Education (Learner Support in Inclusive Education). The purpose of this qualification is to equip educators with the necessary skills to effectively support learners with learning barriers. An undertaking was also made to strengthen co-operation between the two education stakeholders. At the meeting were, from the left: Mr Paul Hansen and Ms Maphoka Liphapang (both Chief Education Specialists in the Department of Education), Ms Annelie Ferreira (Chairperson of the meeting and Lecturer in the UFS Department of Psychology of Education) and Dr Greg Alexander (Lecturer in the UFS Department of Psychology of Education).
Photo: Leonie Bolleurs

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