A mission to aid local talent
An arts initiative borne from the realisation that Pietermaritzburg creatives are battling to find a stage to exhibit their talents is slowly gaining ground with people from all walks of life adding the city to their to-do list.
Pretty Olifant a founding member of Kwasuka Sukela said this was evident following their end of year event which drew a massive crowd last Sunday, despite an unbearable heatwave.
“One of the challenges that we have in Pietermaritzburg is that even though it is the KZN capital we continue to lose our talent to other big cities simply because there is no platform for them to display their creativity and that is why we have this problem,” explained Olifant.
Their event boasted several activities including:
* Storytelling led by the renowned Dr. Gcina Mhlophe
* Performances by a wide range of musicians including jazz legend Madala Kunene, Themba Mokoena and award-winning pianist Mthobisi Mthalane
* An exhibition for visual artists and stalls for fashion designers and crafters
Olifant said that their effort to assist local artists was likely to be a long journey with pitfalls, but it was worth it. According to the arts activist, the presence of legendary figures such as Dr Gcina Mhlophe, Dr Madala Kunene and Themba Mokoena was crucial in inspiring local talent and encouraging young people to consider art as a viable career path.
“On the day, instead of just loitering around children from surrounding townships got a chance to not only listen to fairy tales, but also about the importance of storytelling and the importance of telling one’s own stories through art and (thereby)controlling our narrative. On that basis alone, the day was a success,” said Olifant.
She listed the local library as one of the key sponsors that had ensured the success of the event, expressing hope that their relationship would continue for years to come. “They have been very cooperative in the past, being a valued Kwasuka Sukela partner for years. We have also had some joint ventures including activations, also providing space and support for book launches, creative engagements and varied creative sessions. We regard them as one of the key partners in ensuring that our artists have a platform,” said Olifant.
Kwasuka Sukela: Building Bridges 2024 was held under the theme Shifted Perspectives which Olifant said was one of their focus areas as it ensured that people got to appreciate each other’s diversity. Olifant also acknowledged the crucial support that was provided by the National Arts Council in ensuring the success of the event.
Bessie Head Library Director Mandla Ntombela indicated that their support was driven by the desire to help identify and ensure the development and growth of local talent. “The initiative is about storytelling and the imparting of information which is one of the core responsibilities of the library and that is why we support activities and initiatives that are in line with our mission and vision,” said Ntombela. He promised the library’s support for years to come. “As long as Kwasuka Sukela exists and Olifant still needs our help it goes without saying that we will continue supporting the initiative,” he stressed.
According to Ntombela the event was important as it also enabled the library to showcase its services. “We brought the mobile library to the event and for those who have never been exposed to what the facility offers they got such a chance. So it was a win-win for us all.” He said that Pietermaritzburg was home to struggle heroes such as Truman Magubane and other legendary artists and that their stories should be recorded for future generations.