The role of art in sustaining the livelihoods of Amandebele women in South Africa.

Abstract

Initially, the Ndebele artwork was exclusively the practice of making beaded and painted walls and other structures to preserve the Ndebele culture. However, today their specialty lies in making has some economic driving force, not just customary motivations. This was indigenous research that was informed by the eZiko, Sipheka Sisophula theory and aimed to discuss and highlight how Ndebele women use their art that has cultural significance to sustain their livelihoods. An exploratory research design that is most consistent with Indigenous knowledge research was utilized in this study. Semi-structured interviews together with descriptive analysis were used as tools. Utilizing a convenient sampling procedure, twelve entrepreneurs from Ndebele art school owned by Dr. Esther Mahlangu were sampled. Two data analysis processes were utilized. Firstly, the data were analyzed using the descriptive analysis process. Secondly, data analysis was performed through a thematic analysis, where various themes and emerging themes were identified. The findings of this study stated that Ndebele artists are breadwinners who survive by selling their artwork to sustain their livelihoods. They work for Dr. Esther Mahlangu and at the same time businesswomen who sell their art on different platforms. Furthermore, using the achievements of Dr. Esther Mahlangu as examples, this study showed how Dr. Esther Mahlangu has managed to create wealth and obtain global recognition through her artwork. The use of indigenous knowledge (IK) for wealth and job creation is supported by the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Policy (2004) of South Africa which also acknowledges and supports the role of women in preserving IK.