Creative Feel Dec 2019 / Jan 2020 preview

SA R45.00 (incl. VAT) - December 2019 / January 2020

THE MUSIC ISSUE:

ZOLANI MAHOLA ● LEONARD COHEN ● YO-YO MA ● ZAKIR HUSSAIN AMANDA BLACK ● MARCUS GILMORE ● NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI

CONTENTS

COVER IMAGE: Zolani Mahola

24 THANKS FOR THE DANCE: THE POSTHUMOUS LEONARD COHEN ALBUM For this new posthumous Leonard Cohen album,

cover story 12 ZOLANI MAHOLA: THE ONE WHO SINGS Zolani Mahola, who garnered worldwide

a collection of previously unheard Leonard Cohen material has been arranged by the singer’s son, Adam, and features various collaborators. Thanks for the Dance is an unexpected harvest of new songs and a continuation of the work of one of the world’s greatest songwriters.

acclaim as the lead singer of Freshlyground, has announced that, in 2020, she will focus on her solo career and is currently busy recording

28 THE MENTOR AND PROTÉGÉ FOR MUSIC 2018 & 2019

her debut album. Using music and storytelling,

Indian musician Zakir Hussain and Marcus Gilmore,

Mahola will express deeply personal themes of

31, United States were the Rolex mentor and protégé

identity and belonging in her solo work.

for music 2018 and 2019.

16 NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI SIGNS WITH LEGENDARY JAZZ LABEL The visionary South African pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini is set to release his Blue Note

30 EMERGING YOUNG ARTISTS CULTIVATED AS PROFESSIONAL ARTS PRACTITIONERS THROUGH THE DAC DEBUT PROGRAMME

Records debut Modes of Communication: Letters from

A partnership between Business and Arts South

the Underworlds in April 2020.

Africa NPC, the Department of Arts and Culture

18 AMANDA BLACK TAKES BACK HER POWER WITH NEW ALBUM Multiple-award-winning singer, songwriter and performer Amanda Black recently released her highly anticipated sophomore album, Power.

20 YO-YO MA BRINGS HIS BACH PROJECT TO SA In February 2020, cellist Yo-Yo Ma will make his long-awaited South African debut at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. On Saturday,

and the National Lotteries Council, the Debut Programme identifies emerging creative talent in all nine provinces in South Africa and supports them with knowledge and skills development.

40 LET’S DO THE TIME-WARP AGAIN! Pieter Toerien & Howard Panter present the legendary musical extravaganza The Rocky Horror Show from 17 January to 1 March 2020 at the Teatro, Montecasino.

42 THE WINDYBROW: A PAN-AFRICAN CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

8 February at 19:00, Ma will perform Johann

Creative Feel spoke to the Head of the Windybrow

Sebastian Bach’s Six Suites for Unaccompanied

Arts Centre, Keituletse ‘Keitu’ Gwangwa about the

Cello without interval.

history and future of this iconic institution.

46 A SPECIAL PLACE TO VISIT: THE SAMMY MARKS MUSEUM

64 JOBURG BALLET HOSTS MAJOR INTERNATIONAL BALLET STARS

The DITSONG: Sammy Marks Museum provides

Joburg Ballet will host two of the world’s major

a fascinating destination for family outings, a

international ballet stars, Marianela Nuñez and

relaxing afternoon amid the most beautiful gardens,

Vadim Muntagirov, principals of The Royal Ballet.

or a wonderful wedding destination.

52

DISCOVERIES FROM AFRICA

66 SUSTAINABILITY ON-TREND AT SA FASHION WEEK

A curated collection of intricately handcrafted

SA Fashion Week recently upped the ante by

basket-ware, jewellery, handbags, photography,

announcing its commitment to an ecologically-based

ceramics, furniture and other glorious examples of

and sustainable design culture by 2025.

contemporary African design will be showcased and for sale in Plettenberg Bay this summer.

54 HINA-MATSURI: THE JAPANESE DOLL’S FESTIVAL Frank Teichert of the DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History, showcases some of the Japanese dolls in the museum’s collection in light of the upcoming Hina-Matsuri (Doll’s Festival).

60 THE ART OF REINVENTION: WHY GALLERIES NEED TO ADAPT OR FACE EXTINCTION

lifestyle and entertainment 74 78 79 80

CD REVIEWS WIN WITH CREATIVE FEEL! BOOK REVIEWS ENCORE: ZOLANI MAHOLA

contributors 36 CREATIVITY @ WORK

Miss the digital transformation train and galleries

Dave Mann profiles theatre-maker Roberto Pombo.

today may find themselves irrelevant and unconnected, says Thabo Seshoka, Specialist Art

70

Curator, Absa Gallery.

62 GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION CONTINUES ITS SUPPORT OF AUTHENTIC STORIES WITH APPOINTMENT OF NEW CEO

BUSINESS & ARTS Ashraf Johaardien looks back on nine things he loved in 2019.

72

CONSTANT & CULTURAL Michelle Constant explores the journey of the wayfarer.

The appointment of a new acting CEO for the Gauteng Film Commission sees the organisation gearing up to change the face of Gauteng’s audio-

76

LITERARY LANDSCAPES Indra Wussow delves into the belly of the beast.

visual industry for the better.

Creative Feel / December 2019 / January 2020 / 3

EDITOR’S LETTER

THE JOY OF MUSIC

T

his music issue, Creative Feel’s last for 2019 and first for 2020, is a celebration of a broad spectrum of music genres: classical, jazz, folk, world music, soft rock and pop, and includes some incredible local and international singers, singer-songwriters and instrumentalists: Zolani Mahola, Nduduzo Makhathini, Amanda Black, Yo-Yo Ma,

Leonard Cohen, Zakir Hussain, Marcus Gilmore, Guy Buttery, Spha Mdlalose, Wouter Kellerman, the Ndlovu Youth Choir and Matthew Mole.

There are so many quotes from great creators and thinkers that speak to the importance of music, from Shakespeare to Angelou, Beethoven to Bernstein, Plato to Nietzsche. None of them, though, quite speak to the joy of putting this music issue together. Of delving deep into South Africa’s music industry and being reminded how rich we are with talent – if only we had endless time and pages to feature it all.

In true Creative Feel style, our December/January issue covers the entire spectrum of the creative industries. It is packed with some excellent things to do this holiday season: from theatre and dance, to cultural outings to the DITSONG: Sammy Marks Museum and the DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History – which currently has an enlighting exhibition

PHOTO Matthew Jordaan

of Japanese dolls on display, among others. We interviewed two interesting cultural managers, Keitu Gwangwa, the head of the Windybrow Arts Centre, and the new CEO of the Gauteng Film Commission, Shane Maja – both of whom offered great insight into their goals and plans for their institutions in the coming years, and things are looking positive for the continued upliftment and growth of our creative sector.

We have also included some great competitions in this issue – be sure to flip to page 78 to find out how to win Yo-Yo Ma tickets, Leonard Cohen CDs and a book by Jacob Goldenberg and Drew Boyd.

And, of course, as we transition from 2019 to 2020, a huge thank you from the Creative Feel team to our readers, subscribers, partners, advertisers and columnists. Thank you all for your

Yo-Yo Ma

support and contributions throughout 2019, it has been a rollercoaster of a year, and there have been some wonderful memories and high points along the way. We have big plans for 2020 and some compelling issues lined up – we can’t wait to share it all with you.

Have a wonderful, rested festive season and enjoy the issue!

Tammy Nduduzo Makhathini

P.S. Don’t forget to scan the QR codes scattered throughout this issue to watch some interesting videos or listen to some music. Scan this QR code to keep in touch with Creative Feel online.

4 / Creative Feel / December 2019 / January 2020

TEAM FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Lore Watterson; lore@desklink.co.za COPUBLISHER & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Chris Watterson; chris@desklink.co.za EDITOR Tamaryn Greer; tammy@desklink.co.za DIGITAL CONTENT CURATOR Angelia Muller; angelia@desklink.co.za ADDITIONAL EDITORIAL CONTENT: Indra Wussow Dave Mann Michelle Constant Ashraf Johaardien SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR Thuli Mabaso; thuli@desklink.co.za SALES & MARKETING sales@desklink.co.za, sales@creativefeel.co.za DESIGN Leigh Forrest; leigh@desklink.co.za DISPATCH Khumbulani Dube SUBSCRIPTION & CIRCULATION subs@creativefeel.co.za

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Espresso cups by Zizipho Poswa of Imiso Ceramics in collaboration with The Trenery Guild Zizipho Poswa, co-founder of Imiso Ceramics, is the eleventh artist to join The

Published by DeskLink™ Media PO Box 3670, Randburg, 2125 Tel: 011 787 0252 Fax: 011 787 8204 www.creativefeel.co.za www.desklink.co.za

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Trenery Guild series of collaborators. For this collaboration, Poswa created a

The opinions expressed in this publication do not

unique set of espresso cups. ‘I use a very traditional method of production, hand-

necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

pinching, as my signature and use my textile knowledge to hand-paint beautiful motifs and unique patterns for my pieces,’ says Poswa. CF

While every last effort has been made to check that the information in this magazine is correct at the time of going to press, the publisher and their agents will not be held liable for any damages incurred through any inaccuracies.

6 / Creative Feel / December 2019 / January 2020

BASA.CO.ZA #BIZARTZA

BASA PROGRAMMES C R E A T I N G VA L U E INCREASING ACCESS DIVERSIFYING NETWORKS BASA programmes are aimed at strengthening capacity, and connecting creative individuals and cultural organisations to new networks and skills. We offer a variety of modules including Creative Market Growth, Strategic Partnerships and Design Thinking; and create a space for participants to define, understand and articulate their value. The programmes also focus on cultivating agility and increasing access to allow for a more inclusive and meaningful contribution to the broader society.

I D E AT I O N

G R OW T H

A C C E L E R AT I O N

Cosy Project Debut Programme

Scale-Up Programme

Young Business Mentorship Africa Connect

2020 its way!

is on

W

e are again facing the madness as the stores and shopping malls fill up with ‘Christmas Cheer’ around us. Now is

Boutique Hotel A unique venue, nestled high on the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg amidst peaceful and tranquil surroundings that offer stunning views and an unsurpassed setting of natural beauty and elegance in an oasis of peace and serenity in the city.

the perfect time to escape to Casta Diva

Boutique Hotel – a hidden sanctuary just north of Pretoria where you and a few friends can break away from the consumer-driven holiday season. Casta Diva is your place to retreat, rest and relax.

Casta Diva boasts 30 beautifully decorated, elegant accommodations. From economy to exclusive, there should be something available in your price range or budget.

In addition to the four-star lodgings, this boutique hotel also offers a culinary experience with the Charisma Restaurant, where the food is fresh and excellent, the ambience is elegant, the service like no other and the

Restaurant Guaranteed the true Decadent, Divine, Delightful fine dining experience, the perfect fusion between the magic of Casta Diva, fresh ingredients, a dedicated culinary team and the friendliest service of South Africa.

visit is always memorable. Book a table for a romantic dinner, a small family function or simply just a meal – it is guaranteed to be special.

If you enjoy supporting local, established or up-andcoming artists, book tickets to one of the events hosted in the intimate Vissi d’Arte Theatre/Art Gallery on a Saturday evening. You can visit the ‘Casta Diva’s Vissi d’Arte’ Facebook page for updates on events.

So, whether it be a break-away from the madness of the holiday season, a relaxed breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a rejuvenating overnight stay to start and prepare for the new year, why not find peace at an oasis in the city?

Casta Diva Boutique Hotel is the alternative to travelling for hours to experience a different world.

Take time for yourself and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the best-kept secret in Gauteng – Casta Diva Boutique Hotel, the place to… enjoy life. CF To book or enquire: call 012 542 4449 or 081 542 4449, WhatsApp 081 542 4449, or email: info@castadiva.co.za

SCAN THIS TO VISIT THEIR NEW WEBSITE

DITSONG: National Museum of Natural History

DITSONG: Pioneer Museum

Be inspired by the extent of the variety of South African animals and fossils on display. See life forms that existed before dinosaurs and explore our human evolution.

You are invited to our paradise of country indulgence. The farmstead represents the lifestyle of a pioneer in the 19th century. Witness candle making, soap manufacturing and bread baking in an outdoor oven.

Celebrate children’s parties, country weddings and festivals at this museum.

DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History We explore our origins, history and culture through exhibitions such as rock paintings and engravings of the San hunter gatherers; thousand year-old Iron Age figurines from Schroda in the Limpopo Province; Dipitsa ke bophelo demonstrating women’s artistic skills with clay and the Marabastad exhibition - a true example of a cosmopolitan and fully integrated rainbow nation before apartheid.

DITSONG: Sammy Marks Museum This Victorian-style 40 room mansion displays the life of the elite in the late 1800s. It also reflects the true spirit of entrepreneurship as represented by the homestead of Sammy Marks who created an empire over a period of 40 years.

DITSONG: Willem Prinsloo Agricultural Museum DITSONG: National Museum of Military History This is the spiritual and symbolic home for soldiers and military veterans, a reminder of the great deeds of heroism and sacrifice during various wars and armed struggles.

DITSONG: Tswaing Meteorite Crater A visit to this crater is a refreshing excursion to explore nature’s bounty.

Enjoy a 7.2km hiking trail, birdwatching and complete the tour with a braai at the picnic site.

This Museum represents aspects of South African agricultural history. It has a large collection of farming implements, tractors and animal drawn vehicles. Visit the historic farmyard (1880-1920) with indigenous domesticated farm animals such as Nguni and Afrikaner cattle, Colebrook pigs, Painted Persian sheep and indigenous chickens. By prior booking, visitors can see and experience various demonstrations, including candle making, milking of cows, roasting of coffee beans and baking bread. We also distil mampoer and liqueurs.

Get in touch...

DITSONG: Kruger Museum This is the home of President Paul Kruger and his wife Gezina. The exhibitions highlight his life as President and his mission to fight against British imperialism, his life in exile, the presidential coach and tokens of honour.

www.ditsong.org.za Ditsong Museums of South Africa @DitsongMuseumsSA @DitsongMuseumsSA

+27 12 492 5744 +27 12 323-6592 info@ditsong.org.za

Dazzling light & sound artworks

T

SCAN THIS TO WATCH A VIDEO

he popular annual Spier Light Art will be presented again from 8 December 2019 to 19 January 2020.

THE FOSSIL WORLD OF BOLT’S FARM

to join a procession across a multisensory, cross-cultural

A

wonderland featuring dancers, stilt walkers and other

– CNRS) and the DITSONG Museums invite you to

illuminating enchantments. These performances celebrate

discover the fossils of Bolt’s Farm and learn more about

the launch of the second edition of Spier Light Art – an array

palaeontological excavations.

Each night, visitors will experience a dazzling array of light and sound artworks throughout this historic

Stellenbosch farm.

At the opening ceremony of Spier Light Art on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December 2019, the audience will be invited

of 21 interspersed light and sound installations created by some of South Africa’s leading artists and designers.

re you fascinated by fossils? Have you always dreamed of being a palaeontologist?

Then this exhibition is for you! Le

Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique

(The French National Center for Scientific Research

The DITSONG: National Museum of Natural History in Pretoria welcomes this new exhibition to celebrate several

Choreographer Jay Pather’s performance piece, From

anniversaries: CNRS (80 years), DITSONG: Museums

Before, will feature 22 Shembe, classical ballet and Bharatha

of South Africa (20 years) and the National Research

Natyam dancers – all wearing light-infused costumes. Other

Foundation (20 years).

performances include a new production by the spectacularly

The exhibition aims to introduce visitors to the South

athletic Indoni Dance Company, and a production with large

African historical and palaeontological heritage related to

puppets by Janni Younge.

the evolution of biodiversity (including humans) between 4.5

Tickets for the opening ceremony are sold through www.webtickets.co.za Some of the installations that will run until 19 January 2020 include: Lyall Sprong’s Bergson’s Misting Circle – a four-metre vertical circle of light and mist; Goldendean’s Breathe Goldendean – an interactive inflatable sculpture that

and 0.9 million years ago. It will also be an opportunity to learn more about the activities of the palaeontologist, from the field excavation to the collection.

The exhibited fossils come from the Bolt’s Farm site, in the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa.

The exhibition will address the specificities of Bolt’s

allows you to lie on it while it gently glows and breathes

Farm and its history, the geological formations of caves and

around you; David Brits’ massive 70-metre glowing shape,

fossils, the scientific disciplines related to this subject, the

suspended high in one of the oldest oaks living on the Spier

journey of the fossil from its discovery to the museum, and

Werf (farmyard); and Themba Stewart and Qondiswa James’

examples of emblematic fossils found on the site. In addition

astute and profound Keep the Lights On, which reminds

to a 330-square-metre exhibition space, young children will

us that light in the every day is a sociopolitical issue that

experience a day in the life of a palaeontologist through an

cannot be taken for granted.

educational space of 70 square metres. CF

Spier Light Art is free and guests can explore the farm’s 21 light art installations at their own leisurely pace. The

VENUE:

best time is at dusk, to catch the beautiful sunset and the

DITSONG: National Museum of Natural History

switching on of the lights. Be sure to book a dinner or picnic

432 Paul Kruger Street, Pretoria Central, Pretoria

in advance. CF

10 / Creative Feel / December 2019 / January 2020

Creative Feel / December 2019 / January 2020 / 11

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