Snl24 | Gogo Esther’s art studio dream comes true!

Dr Esther Mahlangu received a newly constructed art studio from Thungela.

MZANSI’S Ndebele artist, Dr Esther Mahlangu receives a newly constructed art studio

This is all thanks to Thungela for donating the studio at gogo’s home in Mthambothini, Mpumalanga on Thursday, 12 September.

Gogo Esther, who is a world-renowned icon, has shared her bright and colourful patterns of the Ndebele nation across the globe for many years.

Her work of art has travelled far, from the walls of her village to famous galleries worldwide. The art studio is a dedicated space where gogo Esther can display her artistic legacy, easily accessible to the community.

July Ndlovu, Thungela CEO, acknowledged the significance of supporting gogo Esther’s work.

“As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month, Thungela is honoured to contribute to the legacy of an iconic figure whose work has put 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,” said Ndlovu.

The newly constructed art studio that was handed over to Dr Esther Mahlangu.

She said the art studio will allow her to showcase her work to the local community and to tourists in this province.

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“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’re committed to respecting and preserving the culture, traditions, customs, and values of the communities where we operate,” added Ndlovu.

Recently appointed Mpumalanga Sports, Arts, and Culture MEC Leah Mabuza, encouraged the youth in the province to come and empower themselves at the art studio.

“The studio is meant for youth skills development, particularly in the IsiNdebele arts and culture. We want to reflect our unwavering commitment and support fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic province, and we aim to create opportunities and build communities. We want to accelerate our shared heritage of our beautiful province,” said Mabuza.

Gogo expressed her joy, saying her dream has been fulfilled within her hometown, KwaNdebele. She said that she believes she still has the energy and desire to teach the youth about art and the IsiNdebele culture.

“I’m thankful for everyone who was able to come and also those who made today possible. My message to the youth is: I’m pleading with them not to neglect their IsiNdebele culture,” said gogo.

The art studio consists of handcrafts, beadwork, and memorabilia such as awards and commissioned paintings.

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