Mampoer occupies a distinct place within South Africa's material and intangible heritage, reflecting the agricultural adaptability of frontier communities and the resilience of craft traditions under shifting regulatory regimes. While widely recognised in popular culture, its documented history remains comparatively thin.
BOOK REVIEWS
‘Geomotional’ is a remarkable and beautifully illustrated exploration of – as the sub-title says – ‘Geometric art, past and present’. The book, which has us journey through images, words, poetry and song, and gives account of a ‘performance-installation’, is compiled by Mary Elizabeth Lange, who is prolific in her writings on Indigenous art and story, and various intersections with heritage.
BLUE PLAQUES
This was the home of two South African revolutionaries, Ray and Michael Harmel. Banned and house arrested, Michael served on the Central Committee of the Communist Party and was its leading theoretician. Ray fought fiercely for equal rights in the Garment Workers Industry in spite of constant threats. The Harmels were deeply involved in the struggle against apartheid throughout their lives.