Sabelo Mangwana, The Keeper of Rituals. 18 x 24 inches. Mixed media. Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa, 2026
Project Statement
This artwork explores the relationship between ritual, texture, and memory through the representation of a woman from the Xhosa people in South Africa. The central figure carries an imbiza (traditional pot) on her head, symbolizing the weight and responsibility of preserving cultural practices. The imbiza represents more than a functional object; it becomes a metaphor for ritual, nourishment, and continuity, suggesting that women carry the knowledge, values, and traditions that sustain their communities. By placing the pot above her head, the artwork emphasizes balance, resilience, and the unseen labour involved in maintaining cultural identity.
The use of traditional attire and adornment, including beaded jewellery and patterned fabric inspired by Umbhaco, highlights the importance of texture as a visual language of memory. These textures reflect layers of history, identity, and generational knowledge passed down through women. The facial markings further connect the figure to cultural expression and ancestral presence
Conceptually, this work positions Xhosa women as carriers of ritual and guardians of memory, whose contributions are often overlooked yet essential to cultural survival. The combination of symbolic objects, textured elements, and cultural references creates a narrative that honours the role of women as the foundation of tradition. Through this piece, the project aims to bring visibility to the quiet strength, resilience, and cultural significance of women, presenting them as living vessels of history and identity.
Self-Reflection on the Collaborative Experience
Collaborating with international universities on this project was a valuable and eye-opening experience. Working with students from different cultural backgrounds allowed me to understand how themes such as ritual, texture, and memory are interpreted in different parts of the world. While my focus was on women within the Xhosa people in South Africa, I learned that women globally also play important roles in preserving culture, even though the specific practices, materials, and meanings may differ. This exchange of ideas helped me see both the uniqueness of Xhosa traditions and the shared experiences of women as carriers of cultural knowledge.
Through discussions, shared research, and visual references, I gained new perspectives on how other cultures express identity through ritual and material objects. It also challenged me to think more critically about my own work and how to communicate meaning visually. Engaging with different viewpoints improved my ability to explain my ideas clearly and to appreciate alternative interpretations. Overall, the collaboration strengthened my understanding of cultural diversity and deepened my appreciation for the role of women in maintaining traditions across different societies.