Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning

🌿✨ Celebrating Roots, Resilience, and Creativity! ✨🌿 We’re thrilled to share some of the incredible outcomes of the 'Resilient Roots Programme', a collaboration between the Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning, Chelsea Physic Garden, and London Metropolitan University ! This project brought together students and elders to explore the indigenous cultural heritage of Southern African plants. Our South African Elders Group shared rich stories of symbolism and traditional uses, inspiring London Met’s MA Illustration students to craft stunning visuals that now bring these plants’ histories to life for visitors at the Garden. Special thanks to artist Declan Munro, whose final works glow with festive vibrancy while beautifully intertwining the values of resilience, healing, and growth. His artistry reflects anti-apartheid heritage and the rich histories of the plants themselves, offering a powerful celebration of their cultural significance. 🌟 Dive into his reflections on this unforgettable journey here:(https://lnkd.in/eBxTPimc) Together, we’re cultivating connections across generations, cultures, and continents. 🌍❤️ 🎨 1.Resilience (Welwitschia mirabilis), 2.Healing (Aloe aculeata) & 3.Growth ( Kedrostis africana) by Declan Munro #ResilientRoots #CulturalHeritage #ArtAndNature #LondonMet #ChelseaPhysicGarden #SouthernAfrica #FestiveColors #SouthAfrica #Art #plants

#OTD 18 December 1946 #SteveBiko was born in Tarkastad in the Eastern Province (now Eastern Cape). We honour the life and legacy of Steve Bantu Biko, a fearless activist and pioneer of the South African anti-apartheid Black Consciousness Movement. To commemorate his impact, we’re sharing a powerful sketch drawing by Sondes Jelassi. This artwork forms part of the research and development for her #animation, “We Are Steve Biko,” which celebrates the life, work and impact of Steve Biko created as part of our 'Anti-Apartheid, Now' series, supported by Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and #BANMT Explore the full animation, "We Are Steve Biko," on our website under 'digital commissions'—https://lnkd.in/ev5HJeDh. 🖼️ Steve Biko, illustration by Sondes Jelassi. #WeAreBiko #OnThisDay #commission #stopmotion #animation #illustration #artoftheday London Metropolitan University #SouthAfrica #antiapartheid #antiapartheidlegacy #activist #blackconsciousness

The 16th December marks the Day of Reconciliation in South Africa. It offers a chance to reflect on South Africa's history—one marked by pain, struggle, and courage — and an opportunity to look forward. From the Battle of Blood River between the Zulu army and the Afrikaaner Voortrekkers in 1838 and the deep wounds inflicted by the apartheid regime, the country has undergone tremendous change. Reconciliation Day calls us to reflect on of the cost of division and the power of unity. We remember and honour those who fought for justice and peace, and acknowledge the work still ahead. True reconciliation means moving beyond struggle whilst learning from the past, respecting one another, and striving for a future where all South Africans and global communities stand together—united, equal, and free. Let us recommit to the ideals of peace and unity as spearheaded by Nelson Mandela and other freedom fighters. 🎨 From one of our recent lino-print Art and Protest workshops for a Camden School, a student is responding to #NormanKaplan's artworks #DayOfReconciliation #AntiApartheidLegacy #UnityInDiversity #SouthAfrica #Remember #Reflect #Reconcile #HumanRights #DignityforAll #LinoPrint #AntiApartheid

🕊️ Honouring Nelson Mandela🕊️ Today, on the anniversary of Nelson Mandela's death we reflect on his enduring legacy of justice, hope, and human dignity. "I feel that Mandela is staring into my soul." This profound reflection comes from year 7 student at Regent High School #Camden on viewing Norman Kaplan's 1986 lino print of Mandela at Swiss Cottage Gallery last month, part of the 'All Shall Be Afforded Dignity' exhibition organised by the Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning, Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA) and the AAM Archives. A travelling exhibition, the Swiss Cottage iteration was hosted in collaboration with Camden Council as part of their #Blackhistory season programme. Kaplan’s artwork captures Mandela during his 27-year imprisonment, at that time on Robben Island—a powerful reminder of his resilience and the global struggle against apartheid. Let us honour Mandela by continuing to fight for equality, justice, and unity. ✊🏽 Explore the exhibition online a https://lnkd.in/edS7jibP #NelsonMandela #MandelaDay #ArtForChange #LegacyOfHope #Mandela #anniversary #dignity #SouthAfrica #OTD #OnThisDay

Today, we honour the life and legacy of Adelaide Joseph, born #onthisday in 1932 —a political activist, feminist and dedicated mother and friend who dedicated much to the liberation of South Africa. Initially active in the movement in South Africa, whilst exiled in London, Adelaide worked tirelessly to raise awareness, mobilise support for, raise funds and activate for the ANC, simultaneously caring for the exiled community in London and ensuring support for those in need in South Africa, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Adelaide’s belief in solidarity and kindness wasn’t just an ideal—it was the foundation of her lifelong fight for human dignity and equality. Her courage and determination leave an indelible mark on history, inspiring us to continue the fight for justice and a better world. 💡 Learn more about Adelaide Joseph’s remarkable life , her contributions to the struggle and her values in our blog post : Adelaide Joseph: In Memoriam, written by Paul and Adelaide's daughter Tanya Joseph https://lnkd.in/ebfMdj_y We carry her spirit forward by standing together for a world where justice, equality, and humanity prevail. 📷 Adelaide Joseph, centre, alongside Winnie Mandela (left, wearing one of Adelaide’s saris) after Winnie had opened the Transvaal Indian Youth Congress, 1963. Courtesy the Joseph Family (as used in 'Slumboy from the Golden City', Merlin Press, 2019). #AdelaideJoseph #AntiApartheid #LegacyOfCourage #EqualityForAll #Inspiration #JusticeMatters #SouthAfrica #activist #feminist #mother #friend #OTD #winniemandela

#OnThisDay, we remember Zainab Asvat (b. 1920 - 30.11.2013), a dedicated activist and healthcare worker who fought tirelessly for justice and equality in South Africa. Born into a political family, she became a passionate anti-apartheid activist and a member of the Transvaal Indian Congress; as a young girl she accompanied her father E.I. Asvat to their meetings and, in 1946 she participated alongside Fatima Meer in the Indian Passive Resistance Campaign whilst a school student at Durban Indian Girls' High School. Zainab was arrested for her activities in this campaign. Zainab bravely opposed apartheid and championed the rights of oppressed communities throughout her life, taking part, as a member of FEDSAW, in a number of marches to the Union Buildings during the struggle. In 1963, Zainab organised a protest of 2000 women to the Union Buildings against the Group Areas act, which was met with violence by the apartheid police. Her younger sister, Amina Cachalia, credited Zainab with inspiring her own activism. Zainab was the first Muslim girl to attend High School in South Africa's Transvaal and later, the first Muslim woman to become a doctor in South Africa. Zainab's life exemplified activism and compassion. Her legacy inspires us to strive for dignity and equality for all. #ZainabAsvat #AntiApartheid #HumanRights #EqualityForAll #SouthAfricanHeroes #activism #activist #SouthAfricanMuslims #InMemoriam #antiapartheidlegacy #womeninleadership #malibongwe #womensrights #OTD 📷 Gisèle Wulfsohn, as displayed in 'Malibongwe, Let Us Praise the Women’ exhibition, curated by South Africa's @ApartheidMuseum to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, displayed in Johannesburg in 2006.

🌍✏️ Celebrating National Illustration Day!🎨✨ This week, we had the privilege of working with talented young artists from three schools across #London: Hanover Primary in #Islington, Acland Burghley School in #Camden, and ACS International School in #Hillingdon. Together, we explored the powerful stories of anti-apartheid heritage through art and artefacts, and the results are truly inspiring! From vibrant illustrations to thoughtful interpretations, these students have engaged with anti-apartheid history using art to respond to issues they are passionate about. A small selection of some of their amazing works ! Thank you to all the students for sharing their voices and reflections, and to the teachers for supporting their creative learning journey. And thank you Jasmine Laverick for facilitating our #linoprint sessions in response to #NormanKaplan’s works, part of All Shall Be Afforded Dignity exhibition organised with Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA) in collaboration with Camden Council Let’s continue to celebrate the power of art to connect, educate, and inspire. #NationalIllustrationDay Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration #nationalillustrationday2024 #ArtWithPurpose #AntiApartheid #StudentArt #CreativeFuture #HeritageInArt #Heritage #Artivism #illustration #linocut

🎨 'All Shall Be Afforded Dignity' – A "powerful", "thought-provoking" and "timely" exhibition showcasing Norman Kaplan's art and inviting audiences to hear its call to action against injustice. Featuring remarks from His Excellency J.N. Kingsley Mamabolo, South African High Commissioner to the UK & Northern Ireland, this exhibition reminds us of the enduring power of art to inspire solidarity and amplify the call for human dignity. 📍 Swiss Cottage Gallery 🗓️ Open until 28th November 🚨 ... 3 more days Don't miss your chance to witness this thought-provoking tribute to justice and humanity! 👉🏽Presented by Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA), the Anti-Apartheid Movement Archives, and Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning as part of #SA2024, the exhibition is hosted at Swiss Cottage Gallery by @love.camden #ArtForChange #DignityForAll #NormanKaplan #HumanRights #SolidarityThroughArt #SwissCottageGallery #Exhibition #linoprint #cartoon #graphicdesign

All Shall Be Afforded Dignity - Exhibiting at Swiss Cottage Gallery until 28th November Discover Norman Kaplan's bold anti-apartheid linocuts in 'All Shall Be Afforded Dignity', a powerful exhibition reflecting on the horrors of apartheid and which resonates with the ongoing fight for justice across the world. As highlighted by Dan Carrier in his piece for the Camden New Journal out today, Kaplan's 'dangerous' work is a stark reminder of the courage art can inspire. https://lnkd.in/gyVXPicp 🖼️ 'All Shall Be Afforded Dignity' is on display until 28th November 🕰️ Monday-Thursday: 10am - 8pm | Friday-Saturday: 10am - 5pm 📍 Swiss Cottage Gallery, inside Swiss Cottage Library, Camden NW3 3HA 🎟️ Free Entry A travelling exhibition organised by Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning, Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA) and the Anti-Apartheid Movement Archives for #SA2024 in partnership with the South African High Commission to the UK and Northern Ireland, this iteration is part of Camden's Black History Season with @love.camden. Don’t miss this celebration of resistance, resilience, and dignity. #ArtForJustice #BlackHistorySeason #solidarity #activism #artivism #printmaking

✨ Explore South Africa’s heritage through the lens of Norman Kaplan’s 'All Shall Be Afforded Dignity' exhibition, currently on at Camden’s Swiss Cottage Gallery and running to 28th November. The Open-Air Barber, portrays the resilience of Black South Africans during apartheid, where stringent colonial and apartheid laws restricted property ownership in urban areas, forcing many to become street vendors. This artwork is a testament to the enduring human spirit, showcasing perseverance in the face of systemic oppression. Join us as we celebrate 30 years of democracy in South Africa by reflecting on Kaplan’s powerful linocuts and their relevance to today’s conversations about justice and dignity. 🗓️ Nov 7 - 28, 2024 📍 Swiss Cottage Gallery, Camden NW3 🎟️ Free Entry Anti-Apartheid Legacy: Centre of Memory & Learning Anti-Apartheid Movement Archives Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA) Camden Council #AllShallBeAffordedDignity #NormanKaplan #CamdenExhibition #ArtForChange #Artivism #AntiApartheid #Resilience #HumanSpirit #Dignity #HumanRights