THUNGELA UNVEILS NEW ART STUDIO FOR DR. ESTHER MAHLANGU: A TRIBUTE TO NDEBELE HERITAGE
By Thulane Madalane
Mthambothini, KwaNdebele – In a heartfelt ceremony yesterday, Thungela, a leading energy and natural resource company, proudly handed over a newly constructed and fully furnished art studio to renowned artist Dr. Esther Mahlangu at her home in Mthambothini, Mpumalanga. Known affectionately as Gogo Esther, the iconic figure has been a vibrant ambassador of Ndebele culture, showcasing her striking patterns and artworks on the global stage for decades.
The new modern hut art studio is intended to serve not only as a personal space for Gogo Esther to exhibit her artistic legacy but also as an accessible hub for the local community and aspiring young artists. This initiative aims to inspire creativity and serve as a tourist attraction, enhancing the cultural landscape of Mpumalanga.
During the handover ceremony, Thungela’s CEO, July Ndlovu, underscored the significance of this project, particularly during Heritage Month. “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.”
The art studio, a beacon for future generations, aligns perfectly with Thungela’s commitment to preserving and respecting the rich traditions of the communities in which it operates. Ndlovu emphasized, “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”
In her heartfelt address, Gogo Esther expressed her gratitude, declaring, “This studio is not just for me, but for the entire KwaNdebele nation. Today, I am filled with gratitude, and I want to thank Thungela, the Mpumalanga government, our traditional leaders, and all partners who made this art studio possible. This space will inspire our local youth interested in the arts, and I hope it will spark appreciation for our rich Ndebele culture among visitors from around the world.”
As a further extension of her commitment to nurturing local talent, Dr. Mahlangu has already founded the Esther Mahlangu Art School in her village. This initiative aims to pass on traditional Ndebele painting techniques to the younger generation, ensuring that this unique art form continues to thrive.
Thungela’s investment in this initiative extends beyond cultural preservation; it supports local entrepreneurship and aims to create sustainable economic opportunities for the community. The newly opened art studio is anticipated to become a vital part of the local tourism economy, providing pathways for growth and shared experience.
As Mthambothini welcomes this new chapter in Ndebele arts, Gogo Esther’s legacy is sure to inspire countless souls—both young and old—while fostering a deep appreciation for the culture that she and her vibrant artwork represent.
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