Technology assumes a kind of neutral space. A radically inclusive and apolitical space for creation. Accessible, attainable and universal. In an essay in What Do Science, Technology, and Innovation Mean from Africa?, Professor Clapperton Chakanetsa Mavhunga writes: “The things that words denote never start as universal or available everywhere, their meanings already stabilized; they originate…
Impression and expression, both are quickly becoming ingrained into the DNA of Basalto Collective, whose philosophy is to emphasise the artistry of Mexico, before coalescing it with contemporary design. They are also two idioms that are continuously being sculpted, forged, and created, by the designers its founder, Paulina Reséndiz chooses to platform. Below, she speaks…
For those attuned to the hum of Johannesburg’s cultural pulse, the Goethe-Institut is a beacon of radical thought and artistic inquiry. Currently hosting the poignant Abafa(ba)zi exhibition—running until February 28, 2025—this initiative is more than a display of works; it is a reclamation of space, stories, and identities. Centered on the narratives of African and…
On Saturday, 30 November 2024, the Goethe-Institut Johannesburg will host a vibrant day of family-friendly art and music activities at the Goethe Clubhouse. Running from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm, this free event is open to the public and promises a diverse range of creative workshops, musical performances, and interactive entertainment for all ages. This…
There has been a lot of change in the Wits School of Arts (WSOA) of late, and a great example is Dr Rangoato Hlasane’s course Drawing and Contemporary Practice III. This course invites students to explore the power of collective art and publishing through a critical engagement with historical and contemporary zine culture. Across four terms,…
There is a fervor that only young people possess. When one thinks of most catalytic moments that have changed the course of history young people are at the fore. Whether negatively or positively the youth cannot be denied their rightful inheritance; tomorrow belongs to them. In the Zulu language, there is a saying that says…
When picking through the projects that have been realised by Ghana-based, community-first organisation THE REVIVAL, the philosophy “one man’s rubbish may be another’s treasure” almost immediately springs to mind. Although for them, this appears to be more a way of being than anything else, and it breathes through the numerous projects they’ve undertaken. Whether these…
On the evening of October 30th, Seattle’s creative landscape was lit up with fashion, music, and conversation at The Meet, a first of its kind gathering where stylists, photographers, brand architects, and innovators of all kinds came together in celebration of African and Diaspora artistry. The venue? Seattle’s chic new Karoo Café—a South African-owned gem…
Last Sunday was hot as hell and it was the perfect day to spend at the extravagant NIROX Sculpture Park. Even better that there were all kinds of treats in store. Capitec, one of South Africa’s leading digital banks, partnered with handmadeAFRICA to introduce a new boutique retail experience. This collaboration shows the finest pan-African…
The Joburg Games Fest will include a series of talks and workshops from local and international industry professionals. These speakers represent the growing industry and will tackle conversations about the business, art, and creation of games. Workshops will provide space for young entrepreneurs and those seeking to enhance their skills and creativity. The festival will…
Drag shows are a hoot and it’s fun to see drag kings beginning to take themselves more (un)seriously in the local context. Jozi Kings and Things Part.2 was a repeat performance by Johannesburg’s first drag king collective, Jozi Kings and Things. For those who’d missed out on the sold out tickets for the first show,…
The fight to protect the rights of sex workers in South Africa has been long and arduous, with policymakers focusing on moral standings over cold, hard facts. In August 2017, Ishtar Lakhani criticized the South African Law Reform Commission’s report, which recommended keeping sex work illegal and adding a partial criminalization option. She argued that…
