WATCH | Esteemed Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu receives another honorary doctorate

Esther Mahlangu

Cape Town – Renowned Ndebele artist Dr Esther Mahlangu has been honored with an honorary doctorate in mathematics from the University of South Africa (Unisa) in recognition of her exceptional artistic achievements.

Unisa highlighted Mahlangu’s artwork as a form of mathematics, affirming her contributions to indigenous knowledge systems.

According to Times Live, Unisa said awarding Mahlangu an honorary degree in mathematics confirmed the idea that her work goes beyond mere artistry.

“Here at Unisa we recognise Dr Mahlangu’s work as something that transcends art. It is our firm conviction that her work is a form of mathematics and should thus be recognised as such. As an African university, we have a responsibility to recognise and affirm our indigenous knowledge systems and ensure that they do not play second fiddle to other knowledge systems in the world,” the report quoted Unisa principal and vice-chancellor Prof Puleng LenkaBula as saying.

Mahlangu, a self-taught artist celebrated for her vibrant, large-scale contemporary paintings rooted in Ndebele heritage, has not only created original works reflecting her cultural background but has also passed on her skills through an art school in her village, IOL reported.

Her art transcends boundaries, showcased globally, and in 1999, she made history by decorating a BMW car with traditional Ndebele designs, a distinction previously held only by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and David Hockney.

Additionally, she was commissioned to paint the tail of a British Airways Boeing.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

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