MTHAMBOTHINI – A recently constructed art studio in the shape of a contemporary hut was presented to Dr. Esther Mahlangu by the mining conglomerate Thungela Resources on September 12, 2024 at her residence in Mthambothini, located in the Dr JS Moroka municipality.
Gogo Esther Mahlangu, the globally acclaimed icon, has disseminated her vibrant and colourful Ndebele nation patterns across the world for numerous years.
Her artistic masterpieces have traversed vast distances, transitioning from the walls of her village to prestigious galleries worldwide.
The art studio serves as a dedicated space where Gogo Esther can exhibit her artistic heritage, easily accessible to the local community.
The presence of her artwork will serve as a wellspring of inspiration for forthcoming generations of gifted creatives in the region. This art studio stands as a novel addition to Mpumalanga’s tourism panorama, aiming to invigorate local tour guides and bolster the tourism sector.
July Ndlovu, the CEO of Thungela, duly acknowledged the paramount importance of endorsing Gogo Esther’s artistic endeavors.
“As South Africa celebrates Heritage month, Thungela is honoured to contribute to the legacy of an iconic figure whose work has put the Ndebele art on the global map. When the Mpumalanga Government made a call for us to build a structure for Dr Mahlangu, we heeded the call and came onboard,” he said.
“This art studio will allow her to showcase her work to the local community and to tourists in this province. Here at her home, many will cherish and celebrate this rich Ndebele cultural heritage through her work. Our involvement in this project stems from our deep-rooted presence in the Mpumalanga province, where all our South African operations are situated. In addition, as a business we are committed to respecting and preserving the culture, traditions, customs, and values of the communities where we operate.”
Newly appointed MEC of sports, arts, and culture Leah Mabuza urged the youth from all corners of the province to partake in enriching themselves at the art studio. The studio serves as a hub for youth skills development, with a special focus on fostering proficiency in IsiNdebele arts and culture.
“We want to reflect our unwavering commitment and support fostering of the vibrant inclusive and adynamic province. And we aim to create opportunities and build communities. We want to accelerate our shared heritage of our beautiful province,” said the MEC.
“As the department, we are going to build three libraries, one in Nkangala, the other in Gert, and in Ehlanzeni. In these three libraries, we want the columns of the architectural designs to have Gogo Mahlangu’s drawings. This is so that her art can be everywhere in Mpumalanga.”
Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, Mahlangu expressed her profound joy at seeing her long-cherished dream come to fruition in her hometown of Kwa Ndebele. She further articulated her unwavering belief in her capacity to impart knowledge about art and the rich IsiNdebele culture to the younger generation, showcasing her enduring passion and dedication to this noble cause.
“I am thankful for everyone who was able to come and also those that made today possible. My message is to the youth. I am pleading with them not to neglect their IsiNdebele culture,” she said.
The art studio showcases a variety of exquisite handcrafts, intricate beadwork, and remarkable memorabilia such as prestigious awards and specially commissioned paintings. However, the article failed to address whether patrons are required to pay for entry to the studio.
The grand opening of the studio drew in a diverse crowd, with notable figures including the esteemed media personality Carol Bouwer, renowned actors Sthandiwe and Tony Kgoroge, soccer icons Magents, and esteemed traditional leaders of the royal house of KwaNdebele.
