Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) Minister, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, launched the isiShweshwe Exhibition at the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum on 25 September as part of the Heritage Month celebrations for 2014.
The exhibition aims to promote the history of the fabric and how it has been incorporated into different traditions in South Africa. It also highlights how isiShweshwe is used in current fashion trends. The exhibition was a combined project by DCAS and Iziko Museums.
CEO of Iziko Museums of South Africa, Rooksana Omar, said that it is partnerships such as this that are able to preserve of our cultural heritage. “We can help one another in our common purpose to spread awareness of the many facets of our diverse culture as far as possible” said Omar.
Minister Mbombo took the opportunity to share her knowledge of isiShweshwe, and explained the various ways that woman traditionally wear isiShweshwe at the different stages of their lives and THE importance of the fabric in African Culture. “Not only is isiShweshwe a fabric that connects generations, it is a fabric that also connects the ethnic groups within South Africa. It’s also a fabric that connects South Africa and the world” said Minister Mbombo.
The exhibition is a travelling exhibition which allows the various communities of the Western Cape to view the exhibition and learn more about this well-known fabric. The exhibition will also be travelling to as far away as Austria.
Annerie Pruis-Le Roux
Acting Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9730
E-mail: annerie.pruis-leroux@westerncape.gov.za