Mzanzi Order of Merit, 2026
Mixed media
56 cm x 81,5 cm x 25 cm
Artist’s Statement
I am a mixed media, multi-disciplinary artist whose interest lies in people, particularly people in my own environment of Mzansi. For a while now, I have been attempting to delve into what constitutes a South African identity. What can we claim as aspects of our national character that is instantly recognisable and that everyone rallies around regardless of race, social standing or education?
Whilst on a trip to the Berardo Contemporary Museum in Lisbon I came across Claes Oldenburg’s soft sculpture entitled Light Switches, ‘Ghost’ Version (1963). The impact of a humble subject, so large and so humorous really engaged my interest. I realised that the difficult subjects that South Africans need to speak about can be broached much more easily if humour is involved. Thus, my National Treasures series was born.
This sculpture entitled Mzansi Order of Merit is part of this series and is intended to create an entry into the dialogue of what constitutes a South African identity. It is a humble safety pin, easily relatable and not high-tech! (Many have no access to any of that). It symbolises the resilience of our nation; no matter the troubles, South Africans are known to ‘hold it together’. If it breaks, we pick up the pieces and put it together again. We show up!
On a more serious note, the safety pin is worn as a symbol of solidarity with immigrant communities. In our current xenophobic reality, we certainly need to engage in a dialogue of how immigration impacts a country both positively and negatively.
My sculpture is an award to you. You, the one in the mirror. If you reside, love and survive in Mzansi you deserve to receive this Order of Merit!
