Professional teacher Zinhle Ngobese, a self-taught artist, along with her students from Drommedaris Primary School in Reiger Park, Boksburg, have entered their latest art installation made entirely from boxes into the Ekurhuleni South District Art Exhibition – which take part on the 7th of December 2024, at Lethukuthula Secondary School.
This remarkable creation, titled “Drommedaris’ Ark,” takes its name from the Dromedaris, one of Jan van Riebeeck’s ships that was pivotal in establishing the first Dutch settlement at the Cape of Good Hope, now known as Cape Town.
Beyond the artistic value of the art work, it serves as a powerful symbol of hope, aspirations for a brighter future, and the promise of positive change, reflecting the shared vision of both teacher and students, against the harsh socio-economic climate of the school’s location.
“Drommedaris’ Ark,” is the second time that this school has entered a competition with one of its arts teacher Zinhle’ and her team of students as one of the leading entrants honoured provincially with recognition awards. She said the school loves participating in these art exhibitions and related competitions, because it’s not only about winning but the exposure and potential for growth it offers in refining creative skills.
Professionally schooled to teach IsiZulu & Life Skills at FET level, getting into the teaching field immersed her into teaching drama and basic visual arts. Ngobese says that while getting into art teaching seemed daunting at first, it has grown to be something she heartily loves. “I’m enjoying it! You meet different people and get exposed to different opportunities that can be taken advantage of for overall growth as an artist and a teacher” she says.
“We normally enter competitions with my school, our department hosts regular workshops and ensures that our kids participate in art-led educational events,” Ngobese said.
Ngobese, an artist who also practices in her personal time, represents the modern and dynamic generation of artists who draw inspiration and acquire new skills through the influence of YouTube creators. She proudly declares that her art work is self taught because it is inspired by expressive necessity and love, more than money. “People and life inspires me. And also I’m a spiritual person, so some artwork is a direct result of what I have dreamed – it’s more spiritual than driven by aesthetics.” Ngobese says.
“Also, it’s therapeutic and teaches patience, it helps keep me self-aware in the journey of personal evolution.” Adding that “art especially in the township and formerly disadvantaged communities is one of those expressive forms that is often neglected. As such for all the competitions we enter with our children, it encourages them to participate in areas where they can also build strength, outside pure academic undertakings – where sometimes they are weak.”
“We normally enter competitions with my school. As part of my department, we have various workshops that help kindle the love of art in school.” She says.
By Motshabi Hoaeane
