| AFRIKANIA POTTERY OF DISTINCTION |
|
|
The project is situated in Phalaborwa, Limpopo Province, South Africa.
The discovery of a unique pattern own to the Phalaborwa area and the need for localised employment opportunities, lead to the establishment of the project in 1999. |
| |
| Achievements to date include: |
- Recognised by Professor Peter Rich of the University of the Witwatersrand as being beautiful and special, “You are doing what others are still dreaming about” in 2001.
- Part of the Art and Craft Heritage Exhibition of Northern Province – “we are people because of people”at the Pietersburg Museum. (2001/2)
- Sold out at the Ubuntu Village Craft exhibition. ( World Summit on Sustainable Development - WSSD August 2002)
- 25 pots handed out by State President Mr. Thabo Mbeki to dignitaries from all over the world. (Fancourt George – August 2002)
- Use of wash hand basins in prestigious Hans Merensky Golf Estate development could lead to a breakthrough into commercial markets . (January 2003)
- Described as “the most beautiful pots in the world” Myrta Sousa Poza – Phalaborwa Foundation. (2003)
Commission by the South African SPORTS Commission to design and supply new Floating trophy for the annual Indigenous Games Festival. (August 2003)
- Selected to participate in the CSIR stall at the Limpopo International Investment Conference in Polokwane ( August 2003)
- Sold out during Department of Trade and Industry initiative at the Fukuoka International Trade Fair in Japan. (September 2003)
- A pot is included in the design of a commemorative stamp issued to celebrate 10 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and India - copy of which handed to the Indian Prime Minister by South African State President Thabo Mbeki. ( October 2003)
- At viewing opportunity with Australian Buying delegation, all large pots immediately bought at full price. Import Africa – Brisbane Australia. This buying group plans to buy art and craft to the value of R30m from Africa this year. (March 2004)
|
MISSION STATEMENT
To contribute to community development by developing 50 jobs within the next 5 years.
Empower disadvantaged people through self-employment. Manufacturing local art and craft in Phalaborwa and surrounds, local in character To re-interpret and apply unique art elements selected from our rich cultural heritage. Develop awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage |
| |
| THE TEAM – “34 years experience” |
- Tom Joubert * 31. Dec. 1944 Experience include a successful career in general business management varied involvements in small businesses designing, patenting and marketing consumer products experience in consumer products and Building Industry varied involvements in community projects Latest projects include Bed in the Bush A registered trademark and logo.
By converting old cattle farm structures, three new holiday destinations for Phalaborwa - The Main House, Owl House and Bush Camp with a unique African character were created. Most of the work was carried out by local unskilled labour, trained on the job – all leaving with newly acquired skills.
Set in a Nature reserve outside Phalaborwa, tourists from across the globe have become ardent marketers and visitors of this sought after venue, for conferences, weddings and holiday making. Akanani Care Center Helped to establish organised community caring for children with problems. The centre originally opened as a shelter for street children but soon became a permanent home for a number of children, causing a shift in the services provided. One of these children are now gainfully employed with AFRIKANIA, another at a local Sports Bar as assistant chef. Afrikania Training and experience in pottery started in 1996 from where Afrikania, a job creation project originated in 1999. Recognised by some as a leading project in the use of heritage elements from art, culture and history – “You are doing what others are still dreaming about” (Prof. Peter Rich of Witwatersrand University 2001).
- Sannie Mhlongo * 8 th August 1955 Achievements and experience include Excellent experienced potter for the past 25 years. Wheelwork comparable to the best in hand crafted pottery. Selected by Foskor Development Trust in Phalaborwa as trainer for Pottery Training Programs. Can produce a wide variety of work including Dinner services, Teapots, Mugs an traditional pots in various sizes, (including hand-crafted work) on time, of accurate dimensions/specifications and of a highly acceptable standard and quality.
- John Pudikabekwa * 6 th July 1956 & Shadrack Malepe * 14 th Feb 1968 Achievements and experience include Entered for basic training course in pottery at Foskor Development Trust 1998. Trained at AFRIKANIA and now competent to manufacture and decorate items in the unique Phalaborwa Pattern. Undergoing continued development at AFRIKANIA. Both gentlemen have arrived “by accident” on the farm where they are now producing the product, proving that the technology is easily transferred to new incumbents. Product range of high standard mold making, hand wash basins, traditional pots in various sizes, decorating individual decorative pieces, lamp bases, a variety of individually hand crafted pieces, including large pots and sculptures.
|
| |
HERITAGE PRESERVATION
Each item is a unique piece, created as an individual interpretation of an ancient pattern. Artists, who were trained in the art of decorating with this pattern, create items of rare beauty. The pattern developed through the use of elements from two cultures - mainly Tsonga and Pedi. “I think such development takes place in the presence of respect and admiration between different cultures - and that makes it a Symbol of Peace ” says founder of the project Tom Joubert who discovered the pattern in 1995.
Discovered in the North Eastern parts of Limpopo Province of South Africa, near the town of Phalaborwa, this pattern is skillfully applied to a host of premier products, now traveling the world. Originally used to decorate clay houses, the pattern was nearly lost to modern cement building methods.
By investing in our art, you are supporting an artist who is contributing towards community development and preservation of some of our wonderful heritage forever. |
| |
CONTACT DETAILS |
|
ADDRESS |
PO Box 1257, Phalaborwa, 1390 |
| TELEPHONE |
+27 (0)15 781-1139 |
|
+27 (0)83 601 0946 |
|
|
|
|
