Tribute to a friend, sister and colleague in the arts, writer, poet and photographer Pretty Lebese-Lekota

It has been a hard week for me since the breaking news of a young talented photographer Pretty Thabang Lebese-Lekota's passing. The sad news were shared on Facebook by her husband John Dashing Lekota, also a talented photographer.

Photographer John Dashing Lekota 

Pretty and I met few years ago in Pretoria to discuss future collaborations where she expressed interest to be the official photographer of my community projects and some exhibitions. Unfortunately whenever the projects show up, they coincided with other projects, making our collaborations impossible. However we kept in touch and followed each other's work closely. 

I was mesmerized by the growth of her work in photography and modeling. She was a lover, a healer and creative individual. Often she'd send me text to say "Congratulations child, you inspire me. Hope you are well.' Pretty was a very selfless person who expressed interest in the advancement of humanity. In her poetry she committed her work to social justice. In the poem she wrote earlier this year from her Facebook page Pretty Lebese, she expressed her thoughts in this way:

Our friend Pretty Thabang Lebese-Lekota is been laid to rest today 23 May 2020. May her soul rest in peace. Robala ka kgotso Kgarebe Ya Sione. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Timeless South African Theatre classic, Woza Albert at Selaelo Maredi Theatre, Alex Theatre Company and Academy, 12th Avenue, Alexandra Township

Image
Hamilton Dhlamini and Thulani Mtshweni brought to life the evils of apartheid through their magnificent stage presence and extraordinary monologues. Their theatrical prowess is showcased by their ability to portray different characters - switching roles between and within the scene with minimal props and costumes. Produced by Ndlondlo Productions, directed by Hamilton Dhlamini and stage managed by Phumeza Damage, this four-decade old play, Woza Albert, was originally written by Percy Mthwa, Mbongeni Ngema and Barney Simon. This two-hander piece is currently touring South Africa, fresh from Eswatini. It mesmerised audiences in Alexandra Township for two days - 10th and 11th of June 2023 - and the next stop is the Makhanda National Arts Festival.  Thulani Mtshweni and Hamilton Dhlamini. Pic Supplied by Alex Theatre Company and Academy  This uniquely-spirited stage piece brings forth the lived experiences of South Africans during apartheid, which some of the presen
Read more

THE HEAD and THE LOAD, Kentridge's Celebration and Homage to the Africa Soldiers who fought in World War I

Image
The Head and the Load by William Kentridge is currently showing at the Joburg Theatre. Those who are familiar with the Joburg Theatre's Nelson Mandela Theatre will be surprised to be ushered past the auditorium's normal seating into what looks like the backstage of the theatre. Audience members are made to sit on the rostrum as if at the stadium. The title of the piece is inspired by the Ghanaian proverb, "The head and the load are the troubles of the neck." The lyricism, rhythm, and musicality of African languages are full of wisdom and humility; hence, the title builds anticipation and suspense for the potential audience. Poster of the production. Source: The Head and The Load Facebook Page The opening of this tapestry of artistic festivity is punctuated by the phalanx of dancers, actors, musicians and singers performing along what looks like a 500m riverbank, with the audience watching from across the bank.  The stage is the longest I have seen in length, suspend
Read more

Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024: A Vibrant Showcase of Global Art

Image
Stepping into the International Convention Centre Cape Town for this year's edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair felt akin to entering MoMA in New York City, with a bustling crowd eagerly queuing to immerse themselves in the world of art. After a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the fair roared back to life, showcasing an incredible variety of booths from across the globe, with a notable emphasis on local artists and galleries. Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024 .  One of the highlights was the impressive array of works by Kimati Mafafo, presented by Ebony Gallery, offering a captivating perspective. However, it was the WALL booth from Cape Town that truly stole the show for me, boasting a stellar collection of South African masters alongside emerging talents, providing a privileged opportunity for the public to engage with these significant works. Kimathi Mafafo, Sisters in Unison III, hand and machine stitched embroidery
Read more