Professional photographer Xolani Sithole shared childhood memories of his mother, Busisive Tshwala, doing housework while he rode on her back. This photograph was taken as part of a demonstration for his photography class at his former school in Clearwater, Pinetown.
The importance of parents supporting children's aspirations in creative professions or entrepreneurship after graduation is emphasized. This message will be spread through the photo exhibition organized by Zanelle Nsindane, an art teacher and artist from Durban.
As part of the Women's Month celebration, the exhibition will take place on Friday at Fakathi Secondary School, which is a no-fee school in Clearwater, Pinetown. Nsindane appealed to the public, stressing that parents and families have an obligation to support students. She noted that many parents do not understand a child's desire to pursue art, asking questions such as: 'What will you do with art; where will you work?'
According to her, people raise children solely to become employees, not self-sufficient individuals. Nsindane also called on the private sector to support schools offering art and other creative programs, especially in settlements and rural schools like Fakathi. She specifically noted that this project would not have been possible without the world-renowned Durban artist, Professor Zanelle Muholi.
The exhibition is part of the Photo XP program, curated by the Muholi Institute of Art (MA!), founded by Professor Muholi. Students were required to go out and take pictures highlighting the role of women in their families and in society. Nsindane recounted that some took photos with their families, while others acted as models, telling stories about people important to them, such as a sister who cares for them at home, or the first graduate of the family. Even young men participated, dressing in women's clothing to portray the person they wished to represent.
The success of the exhibition and art class was achieved thanks to the participation of a former Fakathi student who worked with his former teacher as a facilitator. Xolani Sithole, who conducted photography training for the students in preparation for the exhibition, expressed joy at the opportunity to give back to his old school. He noted that about ten years ago, art was not taken seriously at his school; most teachers tended to downplay its significance, considering it merely a game. Even after graduating, he was asked about his plans, and when he mentioned photography, he was told: 'But aren't there those local community photographers?'
However, after returning from a trip abroad to Spain and working under the guidance of Professor Zanelle Muholi's organization, he now receives great respect from everyone. Nevertheless, as Nsindane explained, Sithole found it difficult to obtain the financial assistance necessary to study photography at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.