Art exhibition unites science, heritage and arts, while recognising living legend

Science, heritage and arts have come together in a unique arts exhibition at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley.

Cosmic Echoes: a Shared Sky Indigenous Art Exhibition, was officially opened at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley on Women’s Day, 9 August.

The exhibition is a powerful collaboration between the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO), Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), and the SPU.

This event showcased the collaborative celebration of indigenous people and their wisdom of the southern night skies. It honoured the contributions of women in science and art, especially indigenous women who merge traditional knowledge with modern inquiry, enriching culture, science, education and policy.

Befittingly, the event also offered a rare glimpse into the life of legendary storyteller and preserver of language, Ouma Katrina Esau. She is a national treasure and language activist, and was recognised for her lifelong work and contribution in protecting the ǂKhomani San N|uu language and saving it from the brink of extinction. She is the last living speaker of this language.

Ouma Katrina is widely seen as a living embodiment of the enduring power of women’s wisdom to shape and preserve communities. Described by SPU acting vice-chancellor and principal, Professor Debra Meyer, as a “woman of substance and a phenomenal woman who remains anchored to her culture while embracing technology and education to preserve her people’s language”, Ouma Katrina’s life reflects both the loss caused by colonisation and apartheid and the courage to fight back.

Born and raised in the Northern Cape, Ouma Katrina teaches N|uu from her home, ensuring that this vital part of South Africa’s earliest linguistic and cultural heritage is not lost.

“It is only fitting that the first and only university in the Northern Cape honours a living legend from the Northern Cape,” said Meyer, adding that Ouma Katrina “epitomises the exhibition’s ethos and serves as a living link to remembering where we’ve come from to ensure a better future going forward.”

Women taking up positions in male-dominated industries

A vibrant panel discussion with the theme of “Cosmic voices – Women shaping STEM”, also emphasised the massive inroads which women have made in science and technology, the arts and linguistics.

Panelists included Pontsho Maruping, managing director of SARAO; Bertha Lesego Kgatitswe, Sociology lecturer at SPU; and Sylvia Vollenhoven, artist, curator and Heritage practitioner.

The exhibition embodies “creativity at the intersection of modern science and ancient wisdom”, said Meyer. She noted that the exhibition’s goals align with the SPU’s mission of social justice, recognising indigenous cultures and elders as keepers of knowledge, storytellers, custodians of language, and teachers of technique.

During the panel discussion, Maruping highlighted the fact that women often take up positions in male-dominated industries, of which astronomy is one. She emphasised that despite often being challenging, the rewards are greater.

When asked what advice she would give to young women, Maruping added that “Women are generally very hesitant to enter male-dominated spaces. Every time I’ve said yes to opportunities, it has helped me grow and it has made me braver”.

SKA-mid telescope director, Dr Lindsay Magnus, in his contribution stated that, “in recognising women’s wisdom and their role as custodians of culture, we also celebrate the voices that will inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and storytellers to follow in the footsteps of great women like Ouma Katrina”.

• The Cosmic Echoes exhibition will remain on display at SPU in the Library Auditorium on Central Campus until 13 September, offering extended opportunities for engagement and public visitation.